NOW is the time! It's MINE & I AM WORTH IT! (friends welcome to tag along!!)

[goldcupmom]

So, a new day, a new direction, a new journal and a new commitment to this weight loss/health journey begins tomorrow.

My bodybugg finally arrived yesterday, and with it another day of total chaos where I didn't even have time to open the box. Well, it's charged and ready. Tomorrow instead of going to WW, I'm going to focus on getting the computer program set up & getting started.

Despite the constant life distractions & interruptions here, I'm going to try to chronicle the journey & the ups/downs/sideways of using the bugg. I'm not even sure I have an idea what I'm expecting....other than hopefully extreme motivation.

As for life, the saga, as always, continues. I still haven't heard/received results from my mammo last Thursday, so I am hopeful all is well. I will, of course, be relieved to have it official, and am praying for the good news.

Food has been HORRID!!! I won't even step on the scale until tomorrow & I may not tell until later. I've been totally exhausted to the point of not being able to sleep well even when I have the opportunity. That, coupled with DD problems, DS19 still no car, continuing DS22 issues, horrid allergies, phantom TOM/PMS symptoms, hot flashes galore, DH total lack of support, the constant economic news, etc., has had me turning to food....LOTS of VERY BAD food! (did I ever mention that old habits die hard??)

But, the journey to this point, especially over the last 2 years, has taught me that I AM WORTH the effort. I AM worthy and deserving of TIME for ME. I am NOT the household slave. SAHM and SLAVE are not synonymous! Yes, there are times when I must put me last, but there are also times when I can say NO! My kids are now 17, 19 & 22. NOT little children. And DH really is an adult who should be able to realize that just because I don't have a paycheck that doesn't mean that I am an inferior person and should do everything else for everyone.

Monday at 6p.m. I start grading standardized exams for 9 weeks for Pearson. DH is about to have a rude awakening as DS19 still doesn't have his car back. I will have my bug, so HE will have to be chauffer to DD, her BF & DS19! I also expect him to be HOME when DD is home alone at night & especially when the BF is coming over....(it's not that I don't trust them, but teenage hormones are unpredictable at best!) This is going to make him VERY unhappy as it will restrict his Casino time to weekends only. This is NOT a bad thing- at least in my book! I will now be gone Mon - Fri from about 5:30 - 10:30. It will, I'm sure, be a learning experience for all of them!

By using the Bugg I will be forced into really, carefully journaling everything. Also, I think I will become totally obsessive for awhile about what exercise burns what calories. I can't record calories for swimming as it's not waterproof, so I am hoping to get back into the routine of doing weights and cardio at the gym(especially since DH hasn't ever gotten around to cancelling the membership). My goal is to be at 154 by the time I leave for FL on 7/14. My Bugg has a 6 mo subscription and I want to be at 145 by the end of that time. Roughly just over 1 lb/week loss. I have my new WW food scale set up and ready. I've ordered more 'lightfull' smoothies....these are INCREDIBLE and only 1 pt on WW. I bought a variety of 100 cal packs on sale & have stored them AWAY from everyone else's snacks so they are MINE.

My hope and prayer is that my losing & getting in shape will somehow motivate DH and after I reach goal that he will use the bugg. Well, I can dream......right??? Poor DD was convinced he would have a heart attack before she was 16...he did when she was 14 & he was 48. Now she is convinced he will have another & die before she graduates HS.

My desktop computer is still not working and the warranty company hasn't come to fix it yet. This laptop is clunky and DS19's computer is totally fried. So, with DD's school load, DS19's school, I'm not getting much computer time. At some point I'm going to bite the bullet and buy myself a new smaller laptop....maybe the red one at Sams that is basically email & web surfing, or something similar. Since I will still be 'bugging' when I leave for FL & the cruise, I will need to take my laptop & I really don't want to haul this one!

Tentatively, my rewards are 5 lbs = pedicure
10 lbs = massage
15 lbs = pedicure/manicure
20 lbs = laptop
25 lbs = use my Gift Cert for spa facial

What I really want is a new dress for the cruise, but I won't buy one unless the one I have & have worn only twice is too big. And I want one that isn't black!!

So, welcome to my journey....thanks for reading, commenting, laughing, crying, hoping & praying with me! For now, it's off to get some SLEEP!!!!!

I love you all and WISH that someday, I could win Powerball & we could all meet up together....at WDW of course!!

[momof2minnies]

Julie,
It was great reading your journal! Those teenage hormones, we are fighting those too- Ah remember those days? I find that my PMS-perimeno. syptoms go along with getting less exercise.When I am watcing what I eat- less carbs and moving I don't have the flashes.

Sorry to hear about your DHs MI. That is young.

What is a bodybugg????????? I started doing Jillian Michaels 30 day shred- OMG! It is great, DH is going to do it today with me.Tomorrow we won't be able to walk.I am also reading Bob Harper's new book- AWESOME!

Good luck with the new job- it sounds like you deserve some YOU time.

Have a great day! Pop by my journal some time.
Linda

[toystoryduo]

I love your new journal title!:goodvibes

I am so glad that you finally got your BUG! I can't wait to hear how this thing works. :goodvibes

Praying with you for your mammogram results.....

I like how you have a rewards system set up for yourself when you reach certain goals. I know you CAN do this, Julie!:cheer2:

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Well, this is frustrating!!

I've been trying for 1 hour 15 minutes to open my account/activate my Bugg and it says I have entered the wrong serial number. Keep in mind there are 3 sets of numbers on the side of the unit, plus a barcode and lots of printing....all on a label that is 3/8" by 1".....so VERY HARD TO READ!!!!!!

I finally called cust. svc. who took the info & gave me a work order number. Said I will hear back within 2 - 3 business days or when they have entered this serial number into the system. UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It will not work until it is calibrated/registered with the computer. (Have I mentioned I HATE COMPUTERS LATELY??????????)

Oh well...... off to get breakfast & do some other stuff that needs done.....

[lovinaz]

Hey, I found you! Glad to hear you finally got the Bugg, I can't wait to find out how it works for you. I bet it is really frustrating to get everything set up, but I'm sure it will be worth it in the end!

[goldcupmom]

I just got off the phone with BB customer support. After 2 and a half hours, trying everything they could think of, it will not work with my laptop. Apparently DS22 has something running in the background that we can't find that is keeping it from connecting. I can bring it up with his 'google chrome' browser, but they don't support it, so it won't save the info nor run their software. UGH!!!!! DH is NOT going to want to wipe this computer clean and start over. Personally, I think I just moved 'get a new laptop' to the 'before I start' column!!!!

And, out of frustration, I had leftover pizza & 2 hands of M&M's for breakfast/luch. GRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When my phone gets some charge back- it was ready to die & flashing when we finally gave up.(I sure hope I had minutes to spare!!) I will call DH to get his input.

This Bugg was originally ordered as Christmas for me back in early December. Never got that one & had to wait for money to be refunded. Finally reordered & now this......is this a sign???????? Calgon take me away.....FAR, FAR AWAY!!!!!!!

[Lesli54]

Hey, Julie! I almost missed that you had a new journal. Great title and so so true!

I must say that I love your determined attitude to take a bit of time for yourself.:thumbsup2 If anyone deserves to do something for herself, it is most definitely you.

Sorry to hear that you are having so much trouble getting technology to work. My DMom had some computer problems lately with getting programs to load and run and she found that it was her AntiVirus program that was creating problems. Hope that you get things straightened out soon!:wizard:

WISHing you new success on your new journey.

[toystoryduo]

Sending some :wizard: :wizard: :wizard: your way, Julie. I hope the BUGG starts working for you.

I hope you have a good weekend!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

After almost SIX hours yesterday, and much frustration, when DH got home, he ran & bought a different wireless adapter for my desktop (hopefully compatible this time!:scared1: ) and this morning I was able to set up my BUGG. It was pretty easy once I could log in to do it, but some of the questions were kind of vague/confusing.

Another almost hour & I was able to finally get the wristwatch type monitor to work. Why can't technology all be EASY!!!!

We're having ridiculous winds here in NM, so I can't get out & walk the Husky & she is NUTSO!! Oh well......DH is at a different casino than usual, DD is back at work, DS19 is at work & DS22 is sleeping, so I am doing laundry, did WATP 5 mile fat burning (close as I can tell I burned about 400 cal doing it), DISing & about to start taxes....fun, fun, fun...NOT, NOT, NOT!

If nothing else, it seems the bugg will need me to micromanage my food & exercise if I am to get the good results out of it & therefore my money's worth. Time will tell....I'm only about 5 hours into it......

[toystoryduo]

I'm glad that you were able to get the BUGG up and running!:thumbsup2

Sending some tax :wizard: :wizard: :wizard: :wizard: your way......

I hope your Sunday is a good one!:hug:

[lovinaz]

Yay about the Bugg!!! :yay: I bet once you get used to logging everything it will become easier. Hopefully it works as well as they say and those pounds come flying off! :wizard:

[Lesli54]

Isn't technology wonderful?:rolleyes1 Glad to hear that you managed to work out the "bugs" to get your Bugg working. Keep us updated on how well it works.........or how much time it takes in micromanaging.

Hope you can get through the taxes quickly and easily.:wizard: Have a great day!

[goldcupmom]

Monday morning.....already????????? Gee, I hate the time change!!!

Finally we are getting the first tiny bit of rain this year. I'd love to crawl back in bed, but alas, that isn't an option here.......sigh........

BodyBugg is working, but I know there are many uses of it and the wrist monitor that I haven't figured out. Eventually. It took just over 36 hours for my DH to start telling me how 'absolutely stupid' it is to wear something 24/7, that it is 'just a gimmick', etc. Not once, but repeatedly. Oh well......

Time wise it's not too bad. So far I'm plugging it in after every meal when I login to record my food. Takes about 3 min. if the food is already in the program. If it's not, you have to enter most of the nutrition label....but once you do, it is in there. Battery in it runs for about 2 weeks, so I could definitely do it less often. But, I prefer to know where I am in my calorie balance to help determine if I need more exercise or food.

The 'nutrition plan' it set up for me, I could never do. #1 -It has me eating 1700 calories, burning 2450....for 1.5#/week loss. I can't eat that much 'real' food! #2 - the foods it has me eating are nearly all fruits/vegs & protein supplements....shake for breakfast & lunch, afternoon snack and real dinner. I wouldn't last a week on that...I like to chew food, not just drink it. A day here or there, maybe.

Personally, I think it's much more motivating than WW as it is 'instant' feedback if I choose. I can login my food, upload my calories & feel good (or bad) about the calorie deficit I have. And, I think the band/sensor is a good 'anchor' they talk about at WW.

There is sometimes a bit too much, though. Do I really need to know that between 2 & 3 a.m. I walked 21 steps to the bathroom & back? Telling me that I'm up walking in the night simply makes me more tired!! And I can look at calories burned & see when I'm awake at night......OUCH!!!

Oh well....off to get some more done on taxes while I have peace & quiet....I'd rather nap! And tonight I go start grading exams. More later.....
3/7 - 2827 calories burned
1039 calories eaten
1788 calorie deficit
2 hours 1 min activity
14303 steps
3/8 - 2627 calories burned
1208 calories eaten
1419 calorie deficit
1 hr 41 min activity
13075 steps

[toystoryduo]

I like the fact that the BODYBUGG gives instant feedback. That is so cool and very motivating!:thumbsup2

I hope your Monday is a good one!:goodvibes Sending some :wizard: :wizard: for your taxes. Let us know how your first night of grading goes.:goodvibes

[lovinaz]

It will be interesting to see if your recorded 3500 calorie deficit results in a 1lb weight loss! Can't wait to hear!!! :goodvibes

Interesting that your DH is making snide comments - isn't he the one who originally got you the gift to begin with??:goodvibes :confused3

[Lesli54]

Telling me that I'm up walking in the night simply makes me more tired!! :rotfl2:

Well, look at it this way, those 21 steps are still "activity"!:rotfl:

The way I see it, if the Bugg works for you and helps you to become more aware of your habits so that you can lose, then I don't see it as a gimmick. FitDay also takes time to do when you have to record your food, but it really does help make you aware of the amount of calories and type of calories that we consume mindlessly.

Here's hoping that you have a lot of luck with your new gadget.:wizard:

[Amy&Dan]

Okay, here you are! I guess you are at work right now, I hope you like it. I think this is a very good thing, it will serve as a reminder to everyone in your house how much you do! I hope they rise to the occasion, don't accept anything but total committment from them!

I am sorry this body bugg has been such a pain, I hope it starts to work out for you very soon.

Love the title, you are so worth it Julie!:thumbsup2 :hug: :flower3:

[goldcupmom]

3/9
2958 Cal burned
1278 cal eaten
1680 cal deficit
2 hr 18 min activity
16163 steps

So far so good. I'm still on points & finding this bugg very motivating (and maybe a bit intimidating). Time will tell...... I really don't quite understand the 'activity' it records....something to do with anything at 3mets or above. A question I will have to ask when I have my 45 min phone 'trainer' session. Also, I know I barely sit down in a day, but that seems like a LOT of steps!!!

Grading is interesting. I could never sit still to do it for the full-time shifts!! Very easy for the money. I wish there was one near you, Tracy! It would fit well with your schedule. Sigh.......

Off to give pups a shower, then do a RAMP exercise DVD. I did the WATP 1 mile jog just before lunch. Something different.

Still no time to get to the gym. I'm spending nearly 2 hours out of my day hauling DS19 to/from the bus. I sure will be glad when his car is back!! At least next week is spring break for him!

Hope everyone is having a good week so far!

Oh, I FINALLY got the mammo results yesterday & all clear!!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :thumbsup2

[traceycooper]

Hi Julie - loving your new journal :)
Glad the BB is finally up & running!
great news on the mamo :banana:

[toystoryduo]

Oh, I FINALLY got the mammo results yesterday & all clear!!!! :woohoo: :woohoo: :thumbsup2

Praise the Lord!!!!!!:cheer2: :yay: :banana: :cool1::woohoo: I am so happy for you, Julie!:hug:

I wish there was a Pearson near me too. I could use a little extra cash right now! ;)

Have a wonderful evening!:hug:

[Lesli54]

Glad to hear that the test result came back with good news.:thumbsup2

You are certainly sounding more positive about your new outlook on life and I have to say, I love your motivation (Bugg related or not). Just send some my way if you can.

Have a great day!

[goldcupmom]

3/10
2746 Cal. burned
1152 Cal eaten
1594 Cal Deficit
2 H 10 M Activity
13351 Steps

Well, today I figured out how to 'edit' my food. Yeah, me!!!

Supposedly someone is coming out later to put a new motherboard in the desktop. DH is coming home to 'supervise' them. Unfortunately, DH is relatively certain that the motherboard doesn't contain the communication module......sigh.....

DS19 still has no car....I'm guessing the part didn't come in. UGH!!!

I am VERY GLAD I did not sign on to grade tests full time. I would totally LOSE MY MIND if I had to sit for 8 hours!! I'm not a good sitter in the first place, & although the pay is good & it is easy, it is pretty darned BORING! But, for 9 wks for almost $13/hour, I can deal. I continue to be astonished at the lack of grammar, spelling, punctuation and basic english skills of a 10th grader. Tonight we take 2 qualifying scoring tests on the short answer/story grading. If I don't pass with the necessary 80% I think one of you should come shoot me!! (yes, I may eat my words later...... but I doubt it)

To make things just a little more difficult with the time change & evening job, I seem to be getting a head/chest cold. Last night it was as if the tickle cough was contagious in the room of almost 300 people. I was up for 2 hours coughing HARD & this morning I feel that wiped out, stuffy, coughing cold feeling. I've been popping my C & packed purell wipes, cough drops & kleenex for tonight.

Off to visit a few journals before I have to go pick up DD at school in 15 min. We STILL have the high winds.....hoping that is the source of my cough & not a cold.

Week is half over.......YEAH!!

[lovinaz]

Sorry to hear you are getting the sniffles. Hopefully it is the wind stirring stuff up and not a cold!

Hang in there, those boring shifts will be worth it once you get that paycheck!:goodvibes

[momof2minnies]

Julie,
WOW you are sure burning those cals.I can't wait for nice weather to be outside to get on my bike.
Any idea how to calculate cals. outside on a bike???????? That would be good info to have.

I have to laugh when you mention the grammar and spelling of 10th graders- ever really read some of the posts on the Dis????????? OMG!!!!!!! It kills me sometimes.

Hope your cold ends soon.Next time give Zicam swabs a try- I swear by them.Cold never gets me.

Linda

[toystoryduo]

:hug: Julie....I hope you're feeling better soon!:wizard: Please be sure and get some rest today and drink plenty of fluids.

Have a good day!:goodvibes

[Lesli54]

Isn't it amazing how kids cannot write anymore, let alone spell? I remember correcting something that DD19 did when she was in HS and she told me that the teacher didn't care as long as the teacher had an idea of what she meant. If the spelling was bad, that was fine too. I asked DD21 about it and she said it was true. It is so sad that things have become so lax on basic writing skills. Good luck on trying to get through the tests!:wizard:

Hoping that you can get the computer problems solved. Also hoping you feel better soon.

[goldcupmom]

3/11 -

2987 Cal Burned
1331 Cal eaten
1656 Cal Deficit
2 H 41 M activity
18156 steps

Yes, Amy, I'm sure a paycheck will help the boredom. Last night I ended up getting up & walking every time I was waiting for the other 280 people to finish. Yes, I passed the qualifier so I can actually score. But, the young 2nd
year law student next to me got 9/15 on the first & only 6/15 on the 2nd test. WOW! Tonight we do the expository writing & I'm not hopeful that they are any better at that!

Linda, I have NO idea how to calculate calories burned & that was pretty much the main motivator for me to get a Bugg. I know that 6 people can all weigh the same & be the same age & still burn different amounts in the gym. I never trusted the generic calculations on the cardio equipment. I never would have dreamed I burned this much in a day, though. But, if you figure an avg of 1.1/min for 24 hours (which I seem to burn most of the time sleeping), it does add up.

Computer is working for the moment, but the repair guy thinks it will go down again. Too much techno talk for me.

I'm feeling slightly better today, but I know the mile walk to a grocery last night while waiting for DH didn't help. DS19 was running sound(for pay) for a church on the far side of town so needed my bug. So, DH took me to grading. Well, DD had the BF over & needed to take him home. And, we finished early. So, instead of being on the way to get me at 9:40 when I called, DH finally got to me about 10:15. Windy & cold, but they wanted to close up the building, so I walked to the grocery nearby....plenty safe since there were lots of people around & well lit. But still........., Sorry, they won't be using my car again. I'm not waiting!!

I'm hoping for a tiny power nap in a few minutes as I'm still not sleeping well & when I got home, I needed to potty dogs, feed dogs & pick up kitchen a tiny bit before bed. Then DH watched TV until almost 11:30. UGH!! And, up at 5:30 as usual today....

I still haven't finished taxes. That will end up being my weekend as I can't seem to find enough time to dedicate to it w/o interruption during the day since I'm always hauling someone or something.

Today I did the 'Dancing with the stars Latin Cardio Dance' DVD. Let me tell ya, it ain't easy!! And I'm REALLY glad there wasn't a mirror in the room & no one was home!!

Hope everyone is having a good Thursday.....almost the weekend!!!

[lovinaz]

You sound about as coordinated as me when it comes to dancing!:lmao: I went to one cardio class at the gym and she wanted to spice things up and did a whole latin dance routine to Ricky Martin "She Bangs". I swear, I have never felt like such a fool, I looked like a robot compared to everyone else...

Keep up the good work, can't wait to hear the results of your next WI!

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I am like you, I cannot believe how badly most kids and adults write! That is great you did well on the tests and can go the distance so to speak! That does sound boring, but I agree with Amy, a paycheck will help make it all worth it!

Hope you kick the cold before it starts full force. Rest up and be good to yourself! Your dance DVD sounds very fun!:thumbsup2

[toystoryduo]

Hope you're feeling better today, Julie!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

3/12 -

2788 Cal burned
1303 Cal eaten
1485 Cal deficit
2 H 10 min activity
14500 steps

3/13 - No formal exercise....just at home & WalMart
2966 Cal burned
1394 Cal eaten
1602 Cal deficit
3H 11 min activity
11878 steps

So, I went to WW yesterday for the first time since 2/13.....down .6 --- 171.2 I was thrilled.

As for Bugg.....today is one week (well, on my computer program it now says I recorded weight on 3/11 when I tried to change my METS for exercise, so I guess Tuesday's will now be my week marker.)

Last Saturday when I weighed before I put the Bugg on I weighed 180 on my home scale. Today I am down 5.8 lbs -- 174.2......WOW!!!!!! My Calorie deficit was approx. 10,500 for the week...about 3 lbs, so I would assume about 1/2 of that is water weight. I don't care....I'll take it! That is more than I ever lost the first week of WW the several times I've restarted.

And, I'm not totally sure why. This week I have been following points, but monitoring/tracking with the Bugg. I am allowed 21 points. My week was:
F - 20, S - 20, S - 20, M - 21, T - 21, W - 19, Th - 25. I think the Bugg is making me more conscious of my food choices and making me move more in general. Knowing the armband is there like 'big brother' watching everything I do, and that I can go input the data at any time and see the effects of what I'm doing seems to be a big boost for me.

I really wish I could have inputed weight into the program today to see what, if any, it changed in my info. Oh well..... I will input on Tuesday and the first update will then officially be 10 days....sigh.....

Today I MUST do TAXES. I WILL FINISH my federal & state before I sleep!! DH is at work most of the day. DS19 works noon shift, DD works tonight. I'm hoping I can FINALLY get to bed early & get some sleep. I feel awful & cough for over an hour when I lay down before it settles. And of course it retriggers when I get up in the night. UGH!! It may be a cold, but I truly think it is allergies as this is what I was like most of the year when we lived in Phoenix. Not a pleasant thought....(allergies, not phoenix!;)

Well, off to get started....

[goldcupmom]

My Taxes are DONE!!! Just waiting for DH signature & copies. Still have 2 kids Federal & 3 kids state to do.....they go quickly!

But, my activity, steps & calorie burn today SUCK!!! Must get moving NOW!!!!!

[traceycooper]

congrats on the loss Julie & getting the taxes done :)

[momof2minnies]

Great job on the weight loss and the taxes! Thank God my DH does our or we would end up in jail with my math skills!

Linda

[goldcupmom]

3/14 - Saturday

2609 Cal Burned (it told me if i was at rest the remainder of the day I
wouldn't make it, so I kept walking for awhile hoping I had
enough to be over the top by midnight.....BARELY!!)
1141 Cal eaten
1468 Cal Deficit
1 H 39 M activity
13415 steps

[toystoryduo]

Way to go on getting your taxes done and on your weight loss too!:thumbsup2 :cheer2:

[goldcupmom]

thanks, T, T & L! I'm very glad to have taxes out of the way! As for weight, you know I'm happy about that!!

So, I just did WATP 5 mile fat burning walk & decided to get some info:

Mile 1 - 1341 steps 72 calories
Mile 2 - 1520 steps 100 Calories
Mile 3 - 1401 steps 92 Calories
Mile 4 - 1492 steps 124 Calories
Mile 5 - 1488 steps 113 Calories
Cool Down/Stretch - 227 steps 46 calories

Total calories burned in about 65 min - 549

When I did that dance DVD the other day, I only burned in the low 300s for the same amount of time. Gee, I wonder which I will do???

Off to get a few things done around here & do some more laundry. Hopefully visit journals tonight or tomorrow. DS19 is on spring break so I am not chauffer this week.....YEAH!!

[toystoryduo]

Wow! That WATP 5 mile DVD burns some calories!:banana: About how long does that workout take?

I hope you have a great Monday!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Well, Monday didn't start out well. Desktop is still down with another problem & the repair company insists it has nothing to do with their changing out the motherboard. So, I was really bummed w/ no computer....again.....or should I say still?

Laid in bed & ate stuff I shouldn't all morning. Then I finally decided I'd had enough & went & bought a new laptop. FOR ME. I didn't want to spend the money, but I needed it & I ended up buying a MAC. Always had PCs, but people finally convinced me. So, it is up & running, but I sure don't know my way around it yet! Hopefully I'll have some time to work on learning it soon. Meantime, at least I can get online & upload my daily Bugg info.

Off now to WalMart, then to pick DD up at school. Didn't get exercise in yesterday & likely won't today.....grrrrrr!!!!! But the new computer is worth it!!

More later.....

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I need to get that WATP 5 mile DVD. I have the 1,2, and 3 mile one but that it is some serious calories to burn.

Congrats on the weight loss! I am betting the Bugg is keeping you really accountable and on target with what you eat.

Good job getting the computer, you need that. And excellent job getting those taxes done!:thumbsup2

[lovinaz]

Congrats on the loss!! And the new computer. :thumbsup2

Sounds like the Bugg is really working for you, and well worth the wait! :goodvibes

[goldcupmom]

Yesterday I did the WATP Walk Slim 4 fast miles. About 50 min.
Mile 1 - 95 calories, 1442 steps
Mile 2 - 83 calories, 1292 steps
Mile 3 - 107 calories, 1354 steps
Mile 4 - 92 calories, 1262 steps

Total calories burned = 377.

3/15 -
2823 Cal burned
1087 Cal eaten
1736 Cal deficit
14856 steps
1 h 58 min activity

3/16 -
2376 Cal burned
???? Cal eaten...I did not keep track, but it was WAY TOO MANY
9581 steps
58 min activity

3/17 -
2804 cal burned
1176 cal eaten
1628 cal deficit
15684 steps
2H 2 m activity

Today I need to start thinking about getting ready for my Garage Sale....4/3-4. But first, I'm going to watch BL. Not sure what else.....

[toystoryduo]

Wow Julie!! You are doing a great job!:cheer2: It sounds like the BodyBUGG is a great thing to have.:thumbsup2

Sending some garage sale :wizard: :wizard: your way!:goodvibes

Have a great Wednesday!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Today is a gorgeous day....75 & Finally not too windy! So, I took Sashi for almost 5 miles. Garmin strapped on my right wrist, Bugg monitor on my left.

1 hour 20 min burned 671 calories:scared1: and was 9659 steps. I walked all but 1 mile of it. I actually jogged the first .58, then later .22, .1 & .1. She hadn't been walked in awhile & I found that this kept her calm. Amazed that I could jog at all considering the hills, my allergies & my bad ankle.

Still, minute for minute, I think the WATP 5 mile is so far the best 'burner'. Off to try to visit a few journals.....

[traceycooper]

wow julie you are doing great - keep it up, i bet your seeing results already :)

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, so glad you had a nice day and were able to get a nice walk in! Its so great that you can monitor the calories burned and see what workout gives you most bang for your buck. Hope your weather holds. BL, watched it last night, let me know what you think!

[momof2minnies]

Julie,
That is so cool you can monitor yourself so much like that.

I hear you about the wind, I think you lost it we found it.I hate the wind and won't even try to workout outside in it.

Keep up the great work,
Linda

[toystoryduo]

Way to go on your workout yesterday!:cheer2: It sounds like it was a beautiful day for a walk!:cool2:

Have a great day!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Wind is back! Glad I chose to walk yesterday!!

DD is now officially on Spring Break. I told DH not to wake me as DD & DS19 breaks only overlap by today & tomorrow, so I slept til 7.....LATE for me!!

About to wake DS19 to do his resume. He has an offer to be full-time STAFF at a HUGE church here doing sound....well he says full time but not 100% positive. Either way it could be a huge answer to prayer. Having to pay his tuition & other bills is Killing my savings!

Time to start getting ready for Garage Sale....which means time to total my living room with JUNK....er I mean treasures!

Have a wonderful thursday! I'll be back w/ yesterdays stats.

[goldcupmom]

3/18 -
3003 Calories burned
1283 Calories eaten
1720 Calorie deficit
2 h 18 m activity
16280 steps

Today I did the WATP 5 mile fat burn again. this time 600 cal burned & 7411 steps

Time to get ready for hauling DS19 to work & get some stuff done. more later....

[toystoryduo]

Woohoo!!!! You got to sleep in and you got a great workout in!!!!:cheer2: Way to go, Julie!:cheer2:

[Lesli54]

Hi, Julie!

Looks like you are doing a great job. Hey, if the Bugg helps you to be more aware of your food choices then it is worth it. After all, I think that is half of the battle for all of us. It seems like you are doing great at getting in alot of activity. Still looking forward to hearing if you have been able to take off some lbs with this new device.

Wishing you much luck on gettting the garage sale items started.

Have a great weekend.

[traceycooper]

hope you have a great weekend Julie :)
keep up the great work - that body bugg seems to be well worth the money :)

[goldcupmom]

Went to WW today. Less than stellar WI and less that I had hoped/expected. Down .6.....again.

For my Bugg official WI, I am now down from 180 to 172.5 on my scale at home & it will be 2 weeks tomorrow. I just can't bring myself to eat the number of calories they say, & most days I can't cut down on my movement. Oh well, I think I'm losing some inches/toning, & that it will all eventually catch up/even out. Plus, 2 weeks is WAY to short a time to know. I can't expect miracles!

3/19
2975 Cal burned
1184 Cal eaten
1781 Cal deficit
2H 4 m activity
15339 steps

Today I did WATP 5K w/ a twist. 45 min & burned 365 Cal, 4818 steps.

VERY tired & lots of allergy problems today. About to go start getting some stuff rearranged/marked for Gsale. Always fun....not!! But I do like getting rid of stuff & making a bit off it.

Have a WONDERFUL WEEKEND all!!

[toystoryduo]

Sending some garage sale :wizard: :wizard: your way. Hope you're able to get everything sorted and priced.:goodvibes

My allergies started acting up yesterday. I love spring, but could do without the allergies.:rolleyes1

Have a great weekend!:hug:

[lovinaz]

You know what they always say on Biggest Loser - if you are working out a lot you have to fuel your body with the right amount of calories. But you are consistently losing, so I think you are doing just fine! :thumbsup2

Have fun with the garage sale. :)

[Lesli54]

:banana: It's great that you are still losing, even if it is not as much as you would like to see. Take what you can get and keep in mind that you are still on the losing streak.:yay:

Taking off inches and toning are good. Those are often the things that we can visible see in the mirror and the difference in how clothing fit. Keep up the great work!

[goldcupmom]

No time to really update now, but as of yesterday morning...2 weeks w/ bugg, I'm down 8.3 on my scale. Certainly can't complain about that. I really FELT heavy at WW.....water weight likely.

[Lesli54]

:banana: Yahoo!!! Lbs. are down and kicked to the curb! :banana: Take it and be very proud of all the work you are doing!

Have a great day!

[pearlieq]

Hola, amiga!

You're on fire! I'm so impressed with how much you've been moving and how well you've been tracking everything. Bugg sounds intriguing.

I'm sorry to hear about the allergies--the price we pay for spring. Hopefully Our Lady of the Claritin will clear things right up for you.

Life sounds busy as ever--as usual I want to go lay down for a while after reading your updates. :laughing:

I hope the garage sale prep goes well. It's always so cathartic to clear out.

Sending lots of love and :wizard: your way...

[goldcupmom]

Wow! I'm seriously in need of updating on here. DS19 was on spring break last week & DD from last Thurs to next monday & things are SO HECTIC when they are home!! I need my routine back!!!!!!!

Oh well..... Here's the updates on Bugg....
3/20 - 19.5 pts
2610 cal burned
1102 cal eaten
1508 cal deficit
14916 steps
1H 44 m activity

3/21 - 19pts
2844 cal burned
1168 cal eaten
1676 cal deficit
17185 steps
2H 30 min activity

3/22 - 21 pts
2710 cal burned
1186 cal eaten
1524 cal deficit
15402 steps
2H 10 m activity

3/23 - 28 pts
2884 cal burned
1452 cal eaten
1432 cal deficit
15075 steps
1H 47 M activity

3/24 - 19.5 pts
2620 cal burned
1232 cal eaten
1388 cal deficit
13856 steps
1H 52 min activity

3/25 - 19 pts
2774 cal burned
1136 cal eaten
1638 cal deficit
17038 steps
2H 21 m activity

So, I am making sure I get in my steps minutes to burn at least my 2600 cal recommended. I've figured out that if I'm not at 2000 cal burned by the time I leave to go sit & grade that I won't make it.

I finally have my Bugg coaching session next Monday at 11 a.m. that will be interesting I'm sure.

DS19 car still not back. Allergies are still horrid & it's to SNOW again here tonight:scared1:. We've been in the 70s so it's no wonder everyone is sick!

Since starting the Bugg I've learned to love a few new foods....#1 is LIGHTFULL satiety smoothies...you can buy them at whole foods or order from Amazon.com....MUCH cheaper!! 1 pt on WW and 90 cal, 5 fiber & 5 protein. They really do keep me full for about 3 hours! Tried the strawberry first....pretty good.....then the mango....don't really like but will drink because I paid for them....then the CHOCOLATE.....they are to DIE FOR!!!! VERY sweet & chocolatey!

And, since I have to eat dinner at about 5 & don't get home til 10:15 I have to have a late night snack to make it to morning. I'm totally addicted to sf jello chocolate pudding with a cold sliced banana & a dab of ff cool whip stirred together. 3 pts on WW & keeps me away from ice cream.

I'm still not ready for Gsale....but I still have a week. That is about all I will do this weekend besides laundry.

My cruise price has been dropping at least once a week lately, & is now down...our aft balcony has dropped $220/pp & the kids interior has dropped $230/pp. doin the happy dance!!!!

Off to get something done around here & visit a few journals...at least to read. Almost the weekend!!

Another thing I've learned is that I'm VERY HAPPY that I did not sign up to grade tests full time....I would lose my MIND!!!!! But, 9 weeks of 20 hrs/week for the money I will do again each spring if I have the opportunity. I'm just too active for a 'sit down' job!!

[Lesli54]

Looks like you are doing great, Julie!:cool1:

Thanks for the cellphone story. It's nice to know there are other parents dealing with these issues as well.;)

I have to agree, sf chocolate pudding is really good and makes for a nice treat. I usually get the chocolate fudge since it has a richer flavor. Anything to stay away from the really "bad" foods.

Hope your weekend goes well!

[toystoryduo]

You are doing great, Julie!!!:cheer2: Keep up the good work!!!:cheer2:

That BodyBUGG sounds like it's working pretty well. I may have to look into getting one some day.

I hope you have a great evening!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Quickly popping in....went to WW this morning. down 1 lb. Which seems amazing to me as I can tell hormones are kicking in and TOM seems imminent.

Officially I am back in the 160's at WW!!!!! And, I made my 10% this morning. Off to try to exercise & get a teeny bit done before I have to run & get DS19 at the bus, bring him home to change then immediately take him back to work, DD to work & me to work. UGH!!! I wish his car was DONE!!!

[toystoryduo]

Way to go, Julie!!!!:cheer2:

I hope you have a great weekend!:hug: How's garage sale planning coming along?

[traceycooper]

keep up the great work Julie :)
congrats on the loss :)
its great when you find lower cal options for fav foods :)
i love a ltd edition WW mango mousse & 10 cal jello pots :)

[lovinaz]

Congrats on the loss!!! :cool1:

And wonderful news about the cruise getting cheaper, that should make it a no-brainer to keep that on the books! :goodvibes

[Amy&Dan]

Congrats on the loss Julie, great job!:cool1: Its amazing how many steps you get in, its so cool you can keep track of it.

Sorry I sent you our snow.;) I sent it to my cousin in Amarillo too!

And I hate to tell you, but it looks very unsettled around here next week. So don't pack away the winter clothes yet!

[Lesli54]

Congrats on the lbs down and being back in the 160's!:banana: I can't wait to be there myself. You must be on :cloud9:.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend.

[goldcupmom]

Quick update as I REALLY MUST get to Gsale stuff. It hasn't happened yet.

Anyway.....3 weeks on bugg as of this morning.....down 9.9 lbs!!!!!!:thumbsup2:cool1::yay::woohoo::dance3::ch eer2:

[Zela]

Great Job! I myself am also working towards the 160's so you are an encouragement:yay:

[traceycooper]

:goodvibes:cool1::banana::worship:
keep it up Julie :yay:

[Lesli54]

It is so great to hear that you are enjoying the bugg and getting results. Keep up the excellent work!:cool1:

[goldcupmom]

Thanks, all! This weekend was spent sitting & marking & I'm still nowhere near done. Yesterday is the 1st time in 3 weeks I've not met my Bugg activity, steps, or calories. Oh well, I still had a deficit, so I'm ok with that.

Today is my 45 min 'coaching' session w/ BBugg. Should be interesting. I also need to get DS19 taxes done & both he & DDs state taxes.

Horribly windy here today & it's looking like my Gsale will end up postponed til May if the weather report stays as it is. Friday 30 - 50 mph winds & Saturday 70% chance of rain. I've learned that here in NM the only weekend good for a Gsale is 'welfare weekend'.....the first weekend of the month as everyone still has some of their govt checks left. What a state!

I'd really like a nap today, but I don't think it will happen. #1 priority is exercise as I didn't yesterday. I did finally, however, find a laptop bag that doesn't look too much like one...well, actually I ordered 2 and will send 1 back. Wish I could see them in person......

But the good news is the cruise is getting closer and....when I get to FL early.....I am CAMPING at Ft Wilderness on Sunday & Monday! Both DNieces have campers & go every 6 weeks. DNiece #1 just bought a 36' motorhome. And their older brother & kids are coming (the week before cruise which will send my DSis, their mom, off the charts) so the DNieces decided to extend their weekend a couple days so they can camp, too, since they now have plenty of room. Unfortunately, their passes are seasonal, so no good in july, but at least I will ge the Disney atmosphere & be close by. It would start a riot among all the kids if I went to the parks alone....but tempting:rolleyes1. Wouldn't it be nice to get to go every 6 weeks???? And they booked the entire year at the 40% off discount!! I want to live in Florida!!!!!

[Lesli54]

I agree, I want to live in FL, also.:goodvibes

Hey, you can always just go shopping in some of the various resorts and DTD. At least that should help with not seeing the parks.

I wouldn't be too concerned about not meeting all your bugg goals from time to time. There will be days when you just aren't able to. However, rest assured that all the work that you have been doing and will continue to do after the off days will help carry you through. You have been doing great!

[toystoryduo]

I want to live in Florida too!:thumbsup2

I hope your BodyBUGG Session goes well today. :goodvibes

We saw someone having a garage sale yesterday here in NE Ohio!:eek:I couldn't believe it because it was snowing yesterday. :cold:

I hope you have a great day!:hug:

[Amy&Dan]

I want to live in Florida too! Sad to say, our crappy, unsettled, winter weather is probably coming straight to you. After a dry, warm winter, I guess we can't complain but I want winter in winter, not in the spring!

Go to the parks alone, you deserve it! So when is your cruise?

Keep up your good work, I think that Body Bugg is really working for you!:thumbsup2

[traceycooper]

another one here would emigrate to florida in a flash if the good old usa would let me!!!!
we visited fort wilderness last year - such a great atmosphere!!! so many people made such an effort - decorating the outside area of their camper vans :)
hope the winds soon disapear - heres hoping the weather man is wrong ;)

[goldcupmom]

3/26 -
2741 Cal burned
1421 Cal eaten
1320 cal deficit
15716 steps
2 H activity

3/27 -
2583 Cal burned
1003 cal eaten
1580 cal deficit
15041 steps
1 H 47 M activity

3/28 -
2644 cal burned
1588 cal eaten
1056 cal deficit
14441 steps
1H 52 M activity

3/29 -
2239 cal burned
1100 cal eaten
1139 cal deficit
8116 steps
41 m activity

3/30 -
2643 cal burned
1115 cal eaten
1528 cal deficit
14252 steps
2H 4M activity

3/31 -
2552 cal burned
1114 cal eaten
1438 cal deficit
10589 steps
3H 31 m activity

4/1 -
2404 cal burned
1163 cal eaten
1241 cal deficit
10964 steps
1H 38 M activity

Probably the most interesting thing I learned from my Bugg training session was that there is a place where I can compare the calories in based on my food log and another where it shows calories I must have taken in based on my body measurements(weight loss). The food log is about 400cal less consistently than based on what I have lost. She said this is mostly due to people not measuring food ( but I measure) or prepackaged foods that the portion size varies considerably from what the nutrition guide says a portion is. So, in actuality, I'm consuming about 30 - 45% more calories than my food log shows.

All in all, I'm very pleased. I've certainly had the motivation to stay OP with this constant reminder on my arm and being able to go online at any moment to check progress/damage. So far I've tried to stay within my WW points as well. Saturday will be 4 weeks. I'm hoping for a decent loss tomorrow at WW.

No garage sale this weekend.....stupid NM winds!!! And the rain we are supposed to get. At least you didn't send us snow, Amy!!

So, now my sale has to be May 1 & 2. The weather had best cooperate.

I'm really apprehensive about the cruise/FL trip maybe getting cancelled. DH work has some 'big impact announcement' coming. HR & the directors know, but can't say yet. All we know is that around the US, several different branches have made it mandatory that all employees are off EVERY Friday w/o pay.....in other words, a 20% pay cut. OUCH!!!! If it happens, all summer trip plans are definitely off. No clue when the announcement is going to happen.....UGH!!

Off to get dinner started & I have to leave to grade tests in just over an hour. More tomorrow & hopefully more journals visited tomorrow.

Hope all is well with everyone!! Thanks for popping in!

[lovinaz]

I hope all goes well with DH's job announcement! I know there are several companies that are having people take either pay cuts or scale back on hours. I guess it's better than getting laid off...

Good luck with the garage sale, if it happens!

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I really hope your dh doesn't take that pay cut. We had to do that in 2005 and we are still recovering :sad2:. I'll say a prayer this doens't happen for you guys!

I think that Body Bugg sounds amazing. I so want to get one, do you mind if I ask how much they cost?

I am hoping you (and me too) have a good solid weight loss at WW this week!

I hate to tell you, but we are under winter storm watch for Saturday, we may get like a foot. I hope it doesn't come to you!

[goldcupmom]

Well, it happened. Yesterday DH was told that all management at his level & above, HR, test, ....basically everyone but engineering & factory, will have an 'approximately 10% reduction in take home pay' - translate - about 20% of gross - beginning immediately thru the 3rd quarter. Trying to avoid layoffs. UGH!!!!! But, better than a 100% reduction in income. 10% doesn't sound like much, but w/ 3 'adult' kids & 1 income, we basically live payday to payday.

He isn't concerned, thinks life is just the same. But, he doesn't pay the bills! He marvelled a couple of weeks ago that I sent him to the grocery for a gallon of milk & it was more than $1.50.....try more than twice that! I told him that I'm taking him 'shopping' this weekend so he can get a reality check. He needs some new dress shirts for work....he outgrew his....literally....and thinks he can pick up 3/4 for about $25 total....not even at the thrift store here!! Hopefully he will 'get' it!

Thankfully, he finally cancelled the gym no one has had time to use...$90/month savings. DS22 has been giving me $500/mo (and overdrawing his acct to do it) to pay off his portion of the Credit Card we put DS19s car repairs on....(still no car done)...so it will have only DS19s bills on it & he can now pay. I'm going to INSIST that DS22 keep giving me $200/mo towards the over $12K he owes me for his legal fees, etc. DH did get a decent bonus mid march (of course the govt took 1/2), and we're getting back some in taxes. We already don't eat out except maybe 1x/month, carry lunches, don't have a landline/newspaper delivery, rent movies at the $1 machine, etc, so really there isn't too much more to 'cut' that is readily visible. Obviously DH needs to STOP his casino habit. Between that & watching the utility usage...can you say we usually have 2-3 TVs and about 20 lights running all the time around here...except when I am home alone!! Ridiculous!!

OK, back to reality....Today is WW, then need to go across town to the Credit Union to deposit kid money, then pick up Pizza for dinner w/ restaurant.com gift cert(I accidently bought it for the place about 30 min frm here instead of the one 5 min from here) Then take DD & DS19 to work before going to grade papers. SO BORING & Mind numbing, but I figure I will have made enough doing it to pretty much pay off the cruise balance....IF we decide this weekend to go ahead....cuz ya know it will cost more than just the balance on the cruise....

But, so far, I have the 2 nights hotel in Orlando free. Rental car using DH work code is only $70 for 3 days picking up in Tampa & dropping in FtL & includes full insurance. Gift cards from My Points for food in Orlando....they will just have to deal with Subway, Chili's & Panera. I used Amtrak points for my train trip down to FL & had 1 R/T on Southwest left, so air is just 5 one ways total.

So basically only expense will be the cruise balance, tips, spending money & of course clothes shopping in Orlando, but much of that will be kids bdays & Christmas w/ a little 'back to school'.

It's times like this when I'm glad that I'm a sale shopper/stockpiler. I pretty much have enough of the essentials....TP, kleenex, cleaners, tampons, shampoo, etc to last for the 6 months...& we all know how those add up!! I will only replenish when I can get basically free! And, we are getting a CVS soon!!!!!!!!

Well, enough of dwelling on this. Time to get moving. This weekend is more digging out & marking for Garage Sale. I may list a few things on Craigslist..including DS19 Bug. Please pray he sells it SOON!!! That would really help as then he could take over his tuition payments again!

More later after WI.

[toystoryduo]

:hug: Julie,

I'm sorry to hear about your DH's paycut. :( My DH had to take one too on the busiest contract he has. It's been okay so far as God has provided for us in other areas. :goodvibes

I think stockpiling and being a bargain shopper are huge blessings during times like this. You do a wonderful job at both!:thumbsup2 And did I hear that you will be getting a CVS soon?!?!??!? Yippee!!!:yay::woohoo::cool1:

I'm sending some :wizard::wizard:your way so that you can still take that cruise. With all that goes on in your life, you definitely need that vacation!:hug:

I'm sending prayers and lots of :wizard::wizard:your way. God will work everything out!:goodvibes

[goldcupmom]

Exactly right, Tracy! We may not always have everything we want, but God WILL provide us with everything we NEED. We've seen worse times...like 1995 when we moved cross country 3x, made double mortgage/rent payments for 6 months+, then DH lost his new job 30 days after we bought a new house & sat on that one for another 6 months after moving again. But, 2 yrs before I had been in a car accident in Phoenix where I was the only one really injured (broken hand) & when the settlement came, it was EXACTLY enough to pay off enough to keep us out of bankruptcy and to take the kids to WDW for the 1st time....I had had a budgeted low budget 'someday' trip planned before all this happened, and the amount I got in settlement was, to the PENNY exactly the amount of our bills & the trip. Coincidence? I think not!

[goldcupmom]

OMG! At WW I was down 3.8!!!!!!!! I am totally in shock!!!

[lovinaz]

Wow! Congrats on the loss!!!:cool1::banana::cheer2:

I'm sorry to hear about DH's pay cut, hopefully it will only last as long as they predict and you will be able to make things work out. :wizard:

[toystoryduo]

Congrats on the weight loss, Julie!!!!!:cheer2: You are doing a great job!!!! :cheer2:

[Lesli54]

Congrats on the lbs down! It is amazing how much you have taken off by being more accountable with your Bugg.

Thinking of you as you and your family work through the cutback.:hug:

[DisDee]

Hey Julie, found your new journal so I'll be visiting you again. Congrats on the recent weight loss and sorry to hear about DH's pay cut. You are right though...some how things do work out and God does provide for our needs. Keep up the good work!

[traceycooper]

congrats on the loss julie :)
sorry to hear of DH's wage cut - but like you said it could have been much worse!! i hope you still manage to make your vacation :hug:

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I am so sorry about the paycut. That really stinks but as you say it could have been worse. It just costs so much to run a household and like you we live paycheck to paycheck. Oh well, we do the best we can and somehow God keeps us under His watch and it all works out.

Congrats on a big loss, that is awesome! You worked hard for that so be proud.

I so hope you go on that cruise! You really need that and deserve it.

I think its great to keep making ds22 pay that $200 a month. Its good for him and you.

I can't wait to hear how dh gets a bit of sticker shock when you take him shopping!

[goldcupmom]

Gee, there aren't enough hours in my days! My best intentions of getting on here daily just go right out the window.

So, here's the updates since I last posted:

4/2 -
2957 Cal burned
1007 Cal eaten
1950 Cal deficit
19740 steps
2H 28 m activity

4/3 - Bodybugg site down so no food input
2388 Cal Burned
10037 steps
1H 7 m activity

4/4 - site still down
2326 Cal burned
10799 steps
1H 25 m activity

4/5 -
2662 Cal burned
1050 cal eaten
1612 cal deficit
16615 steps
2H 20 m activity

4/6 -
2765 cal burned
1234 cal eaten
1531 cal deficit
15025 steps
2H 21 m activity

4/7 -
2748 cal burned
1110 cal eaten
1638 cal deficit
18074 steps
2H 33 min activity

4/8 -
2683 cal burned
1250 cal eaten
1433 cal deficit
17991 steps
2H 33 min activity

Tomorrow is WI, but I'm not sure I'm going. I'm living on about 5 - 6 hrs sleep a night as I dont' get home til 10:15, then, of course, there is dinner to put away, dogs to potty & feed before I can get into bed. And I'm the 1st one up daily at 5:30. So, with nightly interruptions, I'm not getting much sleep. But, DH, DS22 & DD are off on Friday, DS19 doesn't have to be up til 9 & I am planning to SLEEP IN!!! If I miss WW, so be it! I don't anticipate much of a loss this week after last week, but either way, I hope to sleep!

The best news I have is that the cruise is ON!!! So, the plan is that I leave here on 7/14 on Amtrak....ALONE...for 3 days. I will be in Chicago on 7/15 for about 3.5 hours, and in DC on 7/16 for about hours. I get to Orlando on 7/17 & the 2 & 3 yr olds are going to get on the train with me & ride to Kissimmee....20 minutes I can handle. The toddlers & mommies are then going to be camping at FtW & I will go to my DSis. 7/18 DSis & I will go to garage sales, breakfast @ panera, pick up water, wine, etc for the cruise & pack. 7/19 DSis, her DH & I will go to Orlando for the day & I will spend the night at FtW with the kids. On 7/24 I pick up DH, DD & DS19 & a van in Tampa & we go to Orlando for 36 hours of power shopping at the outlets....I've started my NEED list & my Christmas lists. Then up early on 7/26 to drive to Ft. Lauderdale, return van & get to pier about 10 a.m. We'll leave for home from Ft. Lauderdale on 8/1 when we get back.

To be continued in next post as I'm afraid this LONG post will crash.....

[lovinaz]

Woohoo on the cruise! :cool1:

And getting to sleep in tomorrow! :cheer2:

[goldcupmom]

DS19 just called. He left his cell in class & it is now gone. UGH!!!!! At least I have a back up 'ghetto' phone he can use until he is eligible for his new one on the 27th of this month.

Monday sas 1 month with the Bugg. I took measurements when I started & these are the 1 month results:

Start - 1 month
Abs 43 41.5
upper arm 14.5 13.75
Waist 36 34.5
Hips 41 40
thigh 24 23.75
bust 42 41

So, 6" difference total. I'll be glad when I can start seeing a change. I can tell in some of my clothes, though, which is good.

My hormones have been totally whacked the last week or so. Feel like TOM is just around the corner, but nothing yet. Today my heart is flipping a bit, so maybe soon. Or then again, maybe not.....I'm with the Amy's and want to have a reproductive riot!

My grading job is way ahead of schedule & if we keep up, it looks like we will be done in about 2 weeks instead of 4. Good 'cuz it is SO BORING, Bad 'cuz I'd like the extra money. DS19 has 4 weeks til finals, DD has 5 weeks til finals. Then in 7 weeks she leaves on her 1st cruise of the summer.....lucky duck! 8 days on RCL out of CA & the parents have gotten the 2 girls their own suite. NICE!

Time to now go & pick DS19 up early & see about stopping service to his old phone. grrrrrrrr........

Oh, starting the week of the 20th DH has to take of 1 day every other week...to compensate for the pay reduction. In his brilliance the announced last night it would be "great" as he thinks we should go somewhere those weekends & do things. All I could do was stare....then remind him of WHY he is taking 3 day weekends for 6 months! And yes, the shopping trip was an eye opener for him!

More later.....

[toystoryduo]

Yeah Julie!!!:cheer2: I'm glad to hear that the cruise is still on.:thumbsup2 Your plans for your trip sound like a lot of fun! I bet you are so excited!!!:woohoo:

Were you able to sleep in today?

I hope you have a great day ahead!:hug:

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, when the horomone burn fest happens, I'll send you an invite! I hate that feeling of having TOM on the horizon but not knowing when or if it will actually happen. So I hear ya on that one.

Men, sometimes you have to sort of HIT them over the head to make them see the light of day Tell him those three day weekends are for home projects while you go to the spa.;)

Can't belive its finals and summer just around the corner. Hope you get ds' phone squared away.

[Lesli54]

The cruise just sounds like so much fun. Although, your pre-cruise plans already have me worn out.;)

I don't know whether I should be glad or sad for you on test grading. The extra $ would be nice, but I know that it is not your ideal job.

Isn't it amazing how much sticker shock a DH can have? Fortunately, mine nows the cost of food (he sees it daily), but sometimes clothing for kids can surprise him. Of course, I have to admit, that I still have problems coming to terms with how much things cost now-a-days.

Hope you have a great Easter weekend.

[traceycooper]

great news that your trip is still on :)

[goldcupmom]

There are just not enough hours in a day anymore.....ugh!!!

I FINALLY finished all 3 kids state taxes....today! Easter has come & gone I leave 3 months from TOMORROW!!!! Sounds like forever, but I know it will go fast.

Rumor has it that the scoring center will have an 'Ohio' job available right after this one & we weren't scheduled to finish til 5/8, but looks like it will be more like 4/21. I will definitely continue on if given the chance.

Today was Day 8 of Jillian's 30 day shred. So far, so good. Except for the scale. I weighed yesterday, & despite of being absolutely spot on w/ points & calories, I've GAINED.....like 3 lbs!!! Stupid hormones!!! But, I know my size is changing. Sunday I wore a pair of pants that BARELY fit 6 weeks ago. I was able to pull them down without undoing them & even the thighs were loose. I also tried on shorts today that I had tried on in Feb & put in my drawer. Got rid of about 1/4 & another 1/4 are on the verge of too big to wear. Sad that all my Adidas shorts that I basically live in are in the 'outta here' pile.....but happy to now be in a Medium!!

Still no car for DS19. Off to get things done....

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I agree: STUPID HORMONES!!! The next three months will fly by and at the rate you are going you will be in a bikini for that cruise. 3 Days alone on the train sounds heavenly. Hope the "Ohio" thing works out, that's more spending money for the cruise.

Don't worry about that gain, it'll be gone in no time. Awesome about the clothes fitting and being in a medium!:thumbsup2

[Lesli54]

Rejoice in the fact that your favorite shorts are in the "too big" pile! How great that must feel.:cool1:

I wouldn't worry too much about the few added lbs, they will be gone soon.

Keep up the great work!

[toystoryduo]

You are doing a great job, Julie!!!!:cheer2: Your hard work is paying off!:thumbsup2

That's cool that you might score the Ohio tests.:goodvibes I got an offer from Pearson about a week ago, but I had to turn it down due to our homeschooling schedule.

I hope you have a wonderful day ahead!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Here I am again.....finally a few minutes to get online. The weather here is about to turn really windy again, so I took Sashi for an 8 mile walk this morning & now I'm SITTING & watching BL from last night.

First the updates:

4/8 - 4/9- 4/10
2683 Cal burned 2292 2652
1250 Cal eaten 1861 1221
1433 Cal deficit 431 1431
17991 steps 10552 14805
2H 33M activity 1H 15M 2H 5M

4/11 - 4/12 4/13
2719 Cal burned 2682 2874
1157 Cal eaten 1087 1345
1562 Cal deficit 1595 1529
14927 steps 11101 20417
2H 5M 1H 49M 2H 43M

4/14 -
2664 Cal burned
1540 Cal eaten
1124 Cal deficit
13739 steps
2H 23 M

I know my numbers mean I should be losing something, so I'm not concerned(just a bit frustrated) at the gain I had a couple days ago. I haven't been on a scale since, but I'm confident that it's hormones & water. I think it (& my current salt craving) was triggered by some 'lettuce wraps' I ate last Friday. Kind like soy sauce with double salt, but SO GOOD!!! Plus, I don't think I've ever lost this month in this short of a time & I think my body needs some time to catch up.

I need to get my focus back working on the Gsale stuff as I'm just not getting it done. I'm back down to 2 weeks from Friday & no closer than I was a month ago.

I'm glad for the clothing size change. Fortunately, I'm such a thrift store shopper that I've got a storage container full of 'too small' & 'not quite yet' shorts for summer. I was able to dig a few pairs out yesterday & move to my dresser. All my adidas stuff I'll gladly replace at the outlets in FL.

DH had his cardiologist visit & he seems to be tolerating his new chol. meds & they are working well. From what he said, he's probably healthier than I am & at his all time high weight & never moves...except to go get a snack. Frustrating......but good.

Well, time to visit a few journals & try to get something done around here.....more later.....

[lovinaz]

That is so cool that you have some different sized clothes that you can look forward to! :thumbsup2

How do you like the 30 day shred? Do you have to do the same workout every day for 30 days?? Is it hard?

Keep up the good work, I'm sure the scale will eventually cooperate. You've really been on a roll! :cool1:

[goldcupmom]

I like Shred, Amy. It's only 20 minutes long, so just about the time I can't stand any more, it's over! Level 1 for 10 days, Level 2 for 10, then level 3.

It's 3 circuits....3 minutes strength, 2 minutes cardio, 1 min abs each. Uses hand weights. I have VERY little upper body strength, so it is tough for me. My quads hurt from the squats & lunges...on the outside edge, but not bad. Tomorrow is day 11, so I start Level 2. I FF through it & it looks kind of scary at this moment, but.....

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I hear you on the salt thing. At the age I am now, its amazing how it just sticks with me and makes my bloat (which is already bad due to hormones) even worse! Love lettuce wraps.

Well that's good news about dh, but I think he's kidding himself to say he's healthier than you. Given the level of exercise you are doing and what you weigh, you are hard to beat right now!

[toystoryduo]

Thanks for sharing the info about Jillian's 30 Day Shred. :goodvibes I may look into getting that workout!:banana:

I hope you have a wonderful day ahead!:hug:

[Lesli54]

There's just something about salt and sweets, once you start on them, you just crave more. Here's hoping that you get through the salt craving quickly.

I wouldn't worry too much about the weight, you are doing great and you are probably right about your body needing to catch up after so much weight lost so quickly.

Good luck on gettting that garage sale stuff done.

[goldcupmom]

Quickly, before I go run errands, I wanted to say I survived Day 1 of Level 2 of the Shred. Jillian is NOT my bestest friend....but, I survived. Would be MUCH easier if it weren't about 1/3 done from plank/pushup position. I guess maybe I'll have some arm strength when I'm done with this. I was actually able to do a handful of REAL pushups...not girly ones, & before day 1 I could do exactly ZERO girly ones.

Back later....

[lovinaz]

Hmm, I might have to check into the Shred. I love workouts where you can see results quickly. That's great that you have gained so much upper body strength already! Can't wait to hear about Level 3!

[traceycooper]

the shred sounds hard - but then thats proberbly why its so effective!!
keep it up julie you are doing brilliant :)
have a great weekend

[saremca]

Hi! I'm just popping by and see you've started Level 2 of 30-Day Shred. I am starting my second week of Level 1, and frankly am scared of Level 2. I'm glad to hear you made it through the first day okay.

I did part of Jillian's No More Trouble Zones this morning and yowza, that was hard too. She is a "no mercy" instructor, that's for sure. I love how that DVD is chaptered though, so you can select which body part you want to work.

I'm impressed by your real push ups! WTG! I don't think I'll ever be able to eek out more than 1 or 2 of those. I'll be doing girl push ups on my knees forever. :sad2:

[toystoryduo]

Way to go, Julie!!! Keep up the good work!!!:cheer2:

[goldcupmom]

Went to WW. Down .4. Very mixed emotions about it. I know I'm losing size if nothing else, but I REALLY want the numbers......sigh.......

To make matters worse, Amy sent me SNOW!!! Just flurries, but dreary. And, I've only had about 10 hours sleep in 3 nights....NOT a good combo.

Off to meet with Jillian......Day 12......

[toystoryduo]

Sending a gentle :hug: your way....I hope you are able to get some sleep asap!:wizard:

I'm sorry to hear about the snow. :( I hope the weather improves for you soon. :goodvibes

Hope your Saturday is a good one!:hug:

[Lesli54]

Please don't send the snow this way!;)

Congrats on the lbs down and rejoice in the size difference. Remember, you are building muscle so the numbers isn't everything.

WISHing you some sleep this weekend.:wizard:

[goldcupmom]

Well, I just looked back at my "rewards" & I need to update/change a bit.

Tentatively, my rewards are
5 lbs = laptop - unfortunately a necessity - done
10 lbs = pedicure - waiting about another week so that it is 'sandal's' weather!
18 lbs = schedule consult to get my bad 'vein' fixed behind my right knee. At this point I will be at my lowest WW weight ever.
22 lbs = massage
26 lbs = goal before trip... schedule spa visit for facial, brows, hair cut & color

4/15 -

2947 Cal Burned
1112 Cal eaten
1835 Cal deficit
21102 steps
2H 59 m activity

4/16 -
2692 Cal Burned
1309 Cal eaten
1383 Cal deficit
15354 steps
1H 58 M activity

4/17 -
2516 cal burned
835 cal eaten
1681 cal deficit
13680 steps
2H 4 M activity

4/18 - site down, didn't go back to enter food
2353 cal burned
11012 steps
1H 34 m activity

4/19 =
2608 cal burned
1239 cal eaten
1369 cal deficit
16027 steps
1H 37 M activity

Today was the dreaded gyn visit. went well as far as I know....of course it will take a while for pap results. I weighed 167 fully clothed & with shoes....and, I have terrible white coat syndrome at drs. felt really nervous...and, my BP was 118/72!!!! I about fell over!!!

Didn't get a chance to visit Jillian over the weekend, so today was only day 13....day 3 of level 2. My bad ankle can't deal with the impact of 'double jump ropes' but other than having to do the normal ones for that & going a bit slower than they do on the 'walk out push ups' and 'plank jacks', I can hold my own. My upper arms are KILLING me, though, but I'm hoping I can actually get some definition there. DSis & I tend to have 'football player' shoulders. Not really attractive!!

Off to get a few things done before I go score. The question I am on should finish off about Wednesday & then we will train for 2 days to help the other night project finish, so probably totally done by middle of next week. I did apply for online & hopefully will hear back soon. That I can do & the money would come in handy.

DS19 car still not back. DS22 is getting over $1500 back in taxes & I would love to be able to 'confiscate' it for part of what he owes me....wish I could!! sigh....but, unless I miss my bet, he will blow it on a big TV to run up my electric bill more.....GRRRRRRR!!!!!!!

And, DH has a new hobby.....online poker......double GGGGGGRRRRRRRRRR!!!!
Oh, well....

97 days until the cruise! 87 days until I get on the train :woohoo:.....Can't wait to get my Garage Sale over the 1st & 2nd so I can dig some suitcases out.....:laughing: Yes, I am pathetic!!

[Lesli54]

Julie, I love your goals, especially your final one where you really pamper yourself. You are really doing great job.:banana:

I think you will definitely be at goal when you go on your trip. All of your talk about garage saling has me in the mood to seriously dejunk and get rid of everything possible when they do the town sale in early June.

Hoping your day is a good one.:wizard:

[traceycooper]

hi julie - hope the gyn results all come back ok.
i've always wanted muscly arms!! definition would be a great start!! :)

[toystoryduo]

Great goals and great rewards, Julie!!!! You are doing a great job!!! Keep up the good work!:cheer2:

I don't know if we are going to do a garage sale this year or not. With our road being torn up until September, I'm not sure that we will be able to fit one in. I'm sending lots of garage sale :wizard::wizard::wizard: your way!:goodvibes

Have a great evening!:hug:

[Amy&Dan]

Went to WW. Down .4. Very mixed emotions about it. I know I'm losing size if nothing else, but I REALLY want the numbers......sigh.......

To make matters worse, Amy sent me SNOW!!! Just flurries, but dreary. And, I've only had about 10 hours sleep in 3 nights....NOT a good combo.

Off to meet with Jillian......Day 12......

Sweetie, if I had sent you that snow from me, you would have gotten two feet, not a few flurries! I think it was from Kansas!:rotfl:

Your cruise is coming up fast. I know firsthand how the number on the scale is frustrating, but just hang in there. Any loss is a good loss. That's two sticks of butter off your body and that's not too shabby!

Say hi to Jillian for me!;)

[traceycooper]

hope your having a great weekend Julie :)

[goldcupmom]

Well, this has been an interesting week to say the least. Very busy scoring, but we finished the project Friday night. Good to be done, but I wouldn't have minded getting a couple more weeks pay.....

Friday before I left to score, doorbell rang. I made DH get it & heard DSil. By the time I walked from bedroom she was crying hysterically in his arms. Her roommate had kicked her out. Not that we didn't expect it. She moved in with this woman whom she had known for less than a month, sold almost all of her furniture/belongings about 2 months ago. So DD went with her to pack essentials & whatever else they could stuff in the car Fri night. Then all day Saturday trying to arrange storage & getting her moved, getting DD moved out of her room & into the office so DSil & her 2 dogs could have that room. UGH!!!

Sunday we crashed. So no Jillian over the weekend, but I did manage 28 miles walking last week. And to add insult to injury, I GAINED .2 at WW on Friday. :confused3

Today DSil(with prodding from her DSis in NC) went & rented an apartment for when she gets back from NC on the 5th....she leaves Thursday. And I will have her dogs (neurotic little dogs) for 5 days....so we have SIX dogs temporarily. Is it any wonder I feel stressed????? And my Garage Sale is Friday/Saturday.

To make matters even a bit more stressful, DH work is going to COMPLETELY Re-org from top down, worldwide & he will find out details on when/how tomorrow. "NO ONE is safe" and "ALL will be affected". Wonderful!!!

But, there is a bright spot......I am going to Florida.....in 17 days!!!!! SW was having a mystery city sale/contest & on Sunday the city was Albuquerque. All flights HALF PRICE!!! For fun I looked & could go R/T to Orlando for $134 nonstop. And, I had $94 credit from rebooking the flights for the cruise, so costing me $40.70. I quickly called DSis to see if her DH could come get me so I didn't have to rent a car. So, I will be in FL for her birthday and the birthday party for the twins(really cousins 5 days apart) I Need the break and for $40 I couldn't pass it up even thought I HATE flying!

Off to get a few things done. My house is a total disaster between the GSale stuff all over & DSils stuff all over.......sigh.........

[toystoryduo]

Oh Julie,

I am sending a :hug: , prayers, and :wizard::wizard: your way. You have a lot going on right now.

That is so cool that you will be going to Florida in 17 days!:banana: Can you take me with you? ;)

By the way...did you say 6 dogs?!?!?:eek:

Have you heard about scoring the Pearson tests for Ohio?

I hope you have a good day today! We'll be praying for your DH's news at work.....:hug:

[Lesli54]

Talk about stress! :scared:

Somedays, I just don't know how you do it. It is a very good thing that you have your trip coming up soon so you can start going into the FL zen to counteract all that is going on at home.;) Hopefully, your DH will not be negatively affected by the reorganization.

Good luck on getting the house back in order. I hope the rest of your day is a good on.

[toystoryduo]

Thinking about you today. :hug: How did your DH's meeting go yesterday?

[goldcupmom]

Well, Tracy, they called me about an hour ago & told me they were just awarded the Ohio grade 5 - 8 project for nights. Starting 5/7 - 5/29. I would have to be gone 5/14-15-18-19. HR lady is out sick today but he said he would have her call me. I'm really praying they will let me do it even though I would miss 4 days. Need some :wizard:

Did Jillian Monday, skipped yesterday, did today - Day 19. I peeked at Level 3 & although hard I THINK I could do most of it...maybe not as quickly, but I think manageable. Due to the GSale, I likely won't meet Jillian after tomorrow until Monday & then it will really kick my rear.

Last week DH work walked out 1 of the director's. He was replaced by someone from outside who apparently knew someone. At the meeting yesterday the other director, DH boss, announced that after the 2 mo of planning the new org, he was retiring.....hmmmmmmmm......No clue what the reorg will mean for DH, but hopefully he will still have a job.....Gee, I LOVE stress!!!

Since my last update on Bugg, (4/20 -28)
24,625 cal burned
10,663 cal eaten
13,962 cal deficit
155,625 steps
19 H 9 m activity

Wouldn't you think the scale would starat to move again, SOON?????

Off to hopefully visit a few journals, call in the Gsale add & price stuff.....

[toystoryduo]

Sending lots of :wizard::wizard::wizard::wizard:for the scoring job, for your garage sale, and for your DH's job.

You're doing a great job according to the BUGG!:cheer2: Keep up the good work and the weight will come off!:thumbsup2

Hope you have a great day ahead! :hug:

[traceycooper]

keeping everything crossed for DH's job Julie!

you got a great bargain with the flight to Florida....if only i could get something like that instead of the $10,000 its gonna cost for everything!!

[goldcupmom]

Getting ready for GSale tomorrow & saturday! Wish me luck!! Still no word on the Ohio project, but HR person could still be sick.....

[keenercam]

Julie -Thinking of you and hoping that the stress of DH's job situation is not dragging you down. I am so glad you have your Florida trip to look forward to, and how wonderful to be able to share your sister's birthday and the kiddies' birthday party! Good luck with your garage sale! :hug:

[Amy&Dan]

Hey Julie, hope your garage sale is going well! I also hope your weather is better than ours is. Keeping fingers crossed for your dh's job, that is so scary. No wonder you are stressed. I hope the sil's dogs aren't being too neurotic. You have a lot going on, take time for you. And very well done booking that $40 trip to FL. Money well spent, a change will do you good!

[toystoryduo]

Sending lots of garage sale :wizard::wizard::wizard: your way! I hope it goes well for you!:hug:

[lovinaz]

I hope your garage sale is going well and that you got some good news about DH's job. :wizard:

[Lesli54]

Sending you lots of :wizard::wizard::wizard: to help you get through the garage sale, waiting to hear on the job, and waiting to hear what happens with your DH's job.

Hoping your weekend goes well.

[toystoryduo]

Hope your garage sale went well for you this weekend! :wizard: Have a great week ahead!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

thanks, all! Friday was a decent day. Saturday, I moved everything out at 7:30, back in due to rain at 8:15, back out at 9:30, half back in at 10:30 due to rain, then all the way in & gave up due to wind at 11:30. PATHETIC DAY~!!

But, the neighborhood sales the realtor sponsors are 6/20, so I will just reset it up then.

DSil dogs are driving me NUTS!!! All they do is bark, howl & whine....24 hours a day. And, they MESS all over, refusing to go outside at all. UGH!!!!

Allergies are horrid & I won't get to Jillian today. To add insult to injury, TOM arrived late Saturday & is trying to make up for being MIA for almost 4 months. I got in a rather slow 5 mile walk yesterday & will try for a WATP long DVD later.

Gott run get things picked up so I can pack for FL & go get gas so I don't run out picking DD up after school.....more later!

Have a GREAT week, everyone!!

[toystoryduo]

Sending a gentle :hug: and some :wizard: your way, Julie. I hope you have a great week ahead!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

thanks, Tracy! I need all the :hug: & :wizard: I can get!

Managed about 4 miles w/ Sashi this morning. Note to self: If you don't leave to walk by about 7 a.m. don't bother. It was only about 65 out but at this altitude it was MISERABLE out walking. Poor husky girl was huffing & puffing. Looks like I will be an early riser this summer since I don't like going alone after dark.

Stats for 4/28 - 5/4:

17,952 Cal burned
8214 Cal eaten
9738 Cal deficit
10H 4 Min activity
93,605 steps

Saturday morning the scale took a dive, finally. then TOM arrived and by Monday it was showing my up 3 lbs. Hopefully it will be back down by Friday's WI.

Officially on the bug at the end of 8 wks I was down 14.6 - about 1.83 lbs/week and I have it set for averaging 1.5 lbs/week. So the early week's water loss is averaging out. All in all, I'm REALLY pleased! Hopefully I will make my goal which was to lose 26 lbs on my scale by the time I leave for FL for the cruise. If I can just keep the 1.5/wk average, it should work.

Time to potty dogs & call to get an appt at Dr as I'm almost out of Chol meds(preventative due to family history...I've never been high) and call about my varicose vein. I found out they usually have about a month wait to get in & I should be at my 'mini goal' by that time to book my reward vein fix :thumbsup2

I'll be back & visit some journals after a brief break....& maybe an a$$ kickin' session w/ Jillian.....

[Amy&Dan]

Hey Julie. I'll send some of these your way too!:wizard::hug: At least you have a back up date for garage sales. We had nasty weather on Saturday and I was wondering if your sale was a bust. Stupid springtime in the southwest!

That is awesome you have taken down that much weight. I'd be pleased if I were you!

Was thinking about you today, I am having what I think are the annoying as he** phantom PMS/TOM sypmtoms the last two weeks. Bloated, crampy, icky and nothing to show up to relieve it all. I hate this! I keep running to the bathroom thinking its here but no luck. After 8-10 years of this crap, I am so sick of it! Give me menopause or give me menstruation!!!!:rotfl:

Still thinking about having that uterus bonfire in my yard. We can burn our organs and then make smores. Sound good???

[goldcupmom]

Hey Still thinking about having that uterus bonfire in my yard. We can burn our organs and then make smores. Sound good???


Give me about 8 hours notice & I'll be there. I started in peri in 1994 and it's really depressing as my Dsis & my mom were DONE at age 38....what am I, the energizer bunny????? ENOUGH!!!!

[traceycooper]

HI Julie
sorry the garage sale got kinda rained off, but good you can do another :)
hopefully Tom will make a short visit ;)

[goldcupmom]

so far TOM shows no sign of abating & I feel like someone cut an artery. UGH!!

Didn't help that Jillian MADE me do Level 3 this morning for the first time. somehow, I think chopping off my arms would have been less painful! But, I survived & was able to do probably 90%. Just a killer on the arms. I will definitely feel it tomorrow.

After many calls, I FINALLY got an appt. to get in to my primary to get my chol. meds refilled. In 4 yrs, I've actually been able to see her ONCE. And this time they told me the next appt was 7/22. So, since I'm way overdue on labs, I have to get blood drawn tomorrow. If it's not good, I'm gonna cry as I've been working so hard. I am optimistic, tho.

And, I called about my vein. Next appt for a new patient is 9/8....and the appt takes 2 hours. But I booked. That was disappointing as I want it done NOW. sigh...... NM is NOT known for it's Drs!

I finally regained control of my Living room. DSil is in the process of moving out, but I still have the dogs. Hopefully all will go soon.

I actually got out my suitcases for FL next week. I can't wait, but I'm already dreading flying. I REALLY HATE IT!

Off to start dinner....later....hope everyone is having a good week! I'm slowly getting caught up with journals.....

[lovinaz]

You are having some great success with the bugg! Excellent job! :thumbsup2

I hope your SIL gets her dogs soon, that is a lot of animals to take care of at one time.

I bet you are super excited for your upcoming trip! The flight will be worth it. Remember, it's statistically safer than driving (plus I have to say that because I'm an aerospace engineer ;))

[toystoryduo]

Sending lots of gentle :hug::hug::hug::hug: and :wizard::wizard::wizard::wizard: your way.... You have a lot going on right now!

I bet you are so looking forward to your Florida trip. :goodvibes It will be nice to spend some time with family and to have a few moments to yourself. :thumbsup2

You are doing a great job on your weight loss!:cheer2: The BUGG sounds like it has been a very helpful and useful tool for you.:goodvibes

Hope you have a great evening!:hug:

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I am betting your blood work will be fine, you have been working so hard! Keeping my fingers crossed. Level 3, I'd probably drop dead!

I am a white knuckled flyer too, I dread it but once on am okay. To get me to WDW and DL, I'll do it. But I don't have to like it!

Your trip is soon and then you come home and have your cruise. Good for you. Happy Mother's Day, hope its a good one!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Remember, it's statistically safer than driving (plus I have to say that because I'm an aerospace engineer ;))

True, except that my DH is in aero, too, & comes home & tells of all the big goof ups in design & construction of those large pringle cans.....That, and the memory of a lovely, stormy, bouncy flight from St. L to Dallas alone, red eye, just after we were married when the flight was me & a group of morticians going to a convention who, as the overhead bins were popping open, were loudly discussing plane crash victims bodies & parts....for 2 HOURS!!! what a memorable flight.

But, alas, it is very worth flying to get to go to FL, tho not as relaxing as the train.....(and the train is probably statistically more dangerous!)

Made it through Jillian Level 3 again today, but am definitely taking tomorrow off. I can barely hold my cell phone to my ear my arms are so like jelly!

Walked up(under 2 mi) & got the blood drawn...had to wait over an hour, & I likely drove everyone there NUTS, but why waste the time sitting. I walked laps & up & down the stairs....:rolleyes1

Today is 2 months with the Bugg. And, measurement day. Sto far I have lost 2" off my abs(ie. mommy tummy), 1.25" off upper rt arm, 2" off waist, 2" off hips, .5 off rt thigh, and 2" off bust. I really don't need to lose off my hips, but I'd like to see the waist & bust go...oh well, I guess I can't choose, & I'm really pleased overall. I also had to get rid of a couple more pairs of shorts today & sadly, a new Adidas tank top that still has the tags on it. Just too loose in the bust....but not a bad problem. I need to find a good consignment shop here.....

Tomorrow is WI & I hope I can go. It should be an OK week unless something weird happens.....which it does. As of today it was looking like I was down about 2 lbs which means I am getting close to the 150's.

Off to take care of some more groceries. More later....

[toystoryduo]

Sending some :wizard::wizard: for weigh-in today...I hope you have a great weekend!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Got your :wizard::wizard: Tracy & it worked! I was down 4 lbs at WW this morning. I cried when I looked at my weight as I am now below the lowest I have ever been at WW and my scale at home that I began this journey on Jan 27, 2003, had me in the 150s - barely(159.5), but the 150s, and I started at 198.8 at WW, so almost 40 lbs total...but it has been 6 yrs. On the BB scale, I'm at 163.9...down 16.1 now & with less than 10 to lose by the time I leave for FL in July.

Off to get something to eat & go finish the errands I started yesterday.

[toystoryduo]

Weigh to go, Julie!!!!!:cheer2: I am so happy for you and I am so proud of you for all that you have accomplished.:hug: Four pounds in a week and forty pounds lost overall is WONDERFUL!!!! :woohoo:You are doing an amazing job!!!!:cheer2: Way to go, Julie!!!!:thumbsup2

I just noticed that you signed up for SR!:banana: If you need any pointers, please let me know. :hug:

Have a great day!:cool2:

[lovinaz]

Congrats on the loss! That is AWESOME!!! :banana: :banana: :banana:

DO you find that you are actually burning more calories and eating better with the bugg? Does it make you more conscious of what you are doing with that constant watchdog?

[goldcupmom]

Thanks, Amy & Tracy! I am now less than I was in January 1991 when we were living in a hotel in Phoenix waiting to find a house. (I gained 20 lbs in 1 month eating out every meal & having 2 kids, a dog & 2 cats in a hotel)

Yes, Amy, that is exactly what the bugg is doing for me. With WW I have accountability, but only 1x week and it's too easy to miss. This way it is on my arm 24/7 and constantly reminding me. I could skip recording food online, or ignore it, but the next time I logged in, the questions would start. I'm basically following my points, but making sure the bugg info is w/in reason. And, it is basically the same cost as WW for the 1st 6 months, then cheaper.

[toystoryduo]

Happy Mother's Day, Julie!:flower3:

[traceycooper]

congrats on the loss Julie - i'm so pleased that all your hard work is finally paying off :)
i hate flying too - its about 9hrs to WDW & i keep my fingers crossed the whole way - honestly i'm not joking - i even eat my food with them crossed!!!
Just keep reminding yourself what a great time you'll have when you get their - seems to help for me ;)
Happy Mothers day :)

[lovinaz]

Sounds like the bugg was well worth the drama it took to finally get it!

You are doing awesome, are you ready for your trip??

[traceycooper]

hope your having a good weekend Julie :)

[Lesli54]

Julie, you are amazing! Congrats on getting the lbs down.:cool1::banana:

It is great that you are doing so well with this program. Oh, what it must feel like to be in the 150's.:goodvibes

Hope you have a great week!

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, that is so incredible you are in the 150's! I am so proud of you, that just must feel so satisfying. I need a body bugg! When do you go to Florida? Did I miss that trip, maybe you are there now?

Congrats again, 40 pounds is a lot of weight to lose Wish Sis!!:cool1:

Hate to fly to, but I do it anyway. With drugs of course!

[goldcupmom]

Yes, I am in FL now. Actually, I'm at Orlando airport waiting for my flight home. DBil dropped me off about 2:30 for a 6:10 flight.

It has done nothing but rain hard since Saturday evening here. The roof is leaking here at the airport in several places. It doesn't promise to be a smooth flight home & I hate bumps, so I'm dreading it a bit.

Food has been ok, but I still won't be surprised by a gain as it has been eating out & I'm sure tons of sodium. When I get back time to really buckle down as I leave for FL again in about 55 days.

Sunday DSis, me & one of the DNieces hit the outlet malls in orlando w/o little ones & shopped - left home at 8 a.m. & returned at 10:30 pm. unfortunately, I was unable to find really anything for me....3 tank tops from Costco. But I almost bought shorts at Ann Taylor size 8!! They were out of the color I wanted, but the 8 fit reasonably...a bit snug, but wearable. Of course, I have several surprises for DD & DS19...as usual. Nothing for DH or DS22....oh well.....

My anniversary is Friday & I have heard that DH has plans. Hopefully it doesn't involve tons of food.

Off to visit some journals before I need to go get some food & leave. More later.....

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I am so bummed its raining for you! That is nice dh has something planned for your anniversary.

Hope the flight isn't too bumpy, I am a white knuckled flier too. Take some benadryl if nothing else, it can take a bit of the edge off and maybe you can even catch a few winks!

Size 8 shorts: AWESOME!!!:cool1:

[Lesli54]

Sorry to hear about the rain, but didn't it feel good to be in FL? We have had a lot of rain here and I would much rather deal with the warm rains of FL.

Hoping you made it back safely.

Didn't it feel great to fit into those size 8 shorts? :banana: I can't wait to get there myself. Hope you have a great day!

[toystoryduo]

Way to go on the size 8 shorts, Julie!:cheer2:

Sorry to hear about all the rain in Florida...Hope you had a safe flight home!:hug:

Have a wonderful weekend!:hug:

[keenercam]

Hi, Julie!! Way to go on getting into those size 8 shorts!!! I hope you had a wonderful anniversary celebration!
Was it hard to get back onto track after vacation? Just think of how awesome you are going to look in your birthday cruise pix!! :hug: I am so inspired by you and so happy for you!

[goldcupmom]

Home & well into the 'back to reality' stage. Unfortunately, I got home, was anxious to WI on Wed on my scale as I had been PERFECT the entire time I was gone except for the 2 flying days, where I didn't make exercise, but still had my calorie deficit. BIG MISTAKE!! I was up 5 lbs!! And that pushed me over the edge. I was out of control Wed - Sun. Nothing major, but not what it needs to be. Consequently, the scale is still up 4 lbs.

DD leaves Sunday on her Cruise....now up the west coast, so we are busily gathering all her stuff. Once she is back, I will start packing for July. I'm already gathering a bit here & there.

Shortly before I left for FL I started having an 'ache' in my right side. Actually started after TOM reared it's ugly head. Comes & goes. And, of course, my overactive paranoia has had me thinking all sorts of horrid things. That & the fact that my MIL told her Drs for 2 years...'my liver hurts' & they ignored it..turned out to be cancer...doesn't help. I'm guessing it's due to Jillian, the fact that I 'list' to the right when I sit or stand, my nasty mattress, & then in FL aggravated by 25 lb - 25 lb kids on my right hip. Seems to feel better when I put a bit of pressure on my back muscle & is worse when I sit for too long or in the mornings. Hopefully it will disappear soon so I can go back to just my normal paranoia!!:lmao:

DD is now considering coming to FL on the train with me. Either way is fine with me, but she needs to decide SOON!!

DS19 will likely be going from the cruise straight to Nashville where band he does sound for & some vocals/drumming, has been invited to a major studio to cut some demos to send to recording companies. Needless to say they're all really excited!!

I have a bunch of errands to do today, but got my walking in early. I'm going to try to meet with Jillian later & see if it makes things worse. I certainly need the exercise!!

Hope all is well with everyone....more later.....

[momof2minnies]

Julie,
Congrats on the weight loss! Those 4 lbs will go once you settle back into routine.

Are you taking the train from NM? WOW! I hate to fly too.I bet these days most people do.

Congrats to your son, that is exciting!

Are you doing Jillian Michaels 30 day shred? How are your knees? I trained for and did the full marathon and mine never bothered me- with this dvd they still make too much noise!
Be careful.

Great job!!!!

Linda

[keenercam]

Julie -- Welcome back!! I know those few pounds will drop off as soon as you are back into a routine and drinking water, etc. :thumbsup2 for DS's awesome recording opportunity. Can't wait to hear how it goes. Keep up the great work, my friend! You are really inspiring me. I figure if you can find time to work out and eat right in your crazy busy schedule of doing so much for so many people, I should be able to do better and be more disciplined. :hug:

[traceycooper]

glad you got home safe & sound Julie, i'm sure the scale will ''fix itself'' soon ;)

[toystoryduo]

Welcome Back Julie!:hug:

No worries on the scale, my friend. You've been doing such a great job lately and I know those pounds will come right off!:cheer2:

That is great news for your DS19!!! I can't wait to hear how this turns out for him!:banana:

I hope you have a great evening!:hug:

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I think the culprit is flying. I always gain when I fly, something about the cabin pressure I think. In any case, if you behaved well, its a quirk. And dont' worry about the overeating that one day, we all do that, we gain for no reason and then by God we eat because we are MAD!!! Nature of the beast. Just remember all the good things that have happened on the scale and put in perspective.

July will be here before you know it.

That's great about ds19's band thing.

Hang in there, you are doing so well!

[lovinaz]

I don't know what it is about flying, but I always gain a couple lbs after a plane ride. It will come off soon, once you get back into your normal routine. :wizard:

[goldcupmom]

Well, DD is finally MOSTLY packed and they will be picking her up at 6:30 a.m. tomorrow.

My side/upper right & center abs/rt side back are still not right. I think better, but not right. Yesterday was totally ok from about 2 p.m. til 4 this morning when I got up to take dogs out. Then ached again til about 2 p.m. I'm really thinking my bed aggravates it & I'm trying hard to learn to sleep on my back. Bad combo....not feeling well, worried & lack of sleep = VERY CRANKY me. I'm really torn w/ going to Dr this week as I'm thinking this, like DDs torn groin muscle would be difficult to diagnose w/o lots of tests. Don't know. Just praying it will simply get better on it's own....NOW! There really aren't any other symptoms, so I can't help thinking it's muscular, but that it is right side of abs & back....basically directly behind each other, & now is weirdly timed, I keep imagining all sorts of things. GRRRRRR!!!!! prayers appreciated as always.....

Today has NOT been a good exercise day for me. I finally got in my 10k steps & will make my minutes (I'm at 59 now) of activity, but my calorie burn STINKS. And, despite having stayed right on target even through DSils bday cake yesterday that is still in my fridge, anniversary dinner out, my weight is still up 3 lbs. Stupid stress, hormones & life!! By calories I should be down about 3 lbs from when I left for DSis in FL. At this rate I won't reach my goal before I leave for FL....under 50 days!!:scared1::guilty:
Makes me just wanna go eat a giant hunk of cake with the cookie dough ice cream that's in the freezer! I even skipped DQ tonight when I ran to buy DD a freeze & pick up free 'pup cups' for the dogs.

Hope all is well with everyone. NEed to update my FL trip folder before I lose the latest print outs & then hopefully can visit journals.... Oh, forgot, DD is definitely going with me to FL....that's the new printouts I need to update....the flight to FL w/o her!

[toystoryduo]

Sending a :hug: and prayers your way, Julie. I hope that the pain in your side goes away so you don't even have to go and visit the doctor. :wizard:

I hope your Monday is a good one. :hug:

[goldcupmom]

Thanks, Tracy! Ache is still there, but seems to move around a bit....another reason I think it's muscle. More in back sometimes & when I move I can feel the long muscles on right side of back & they are tight/sore. When they are, the front aches more. UGH!! I just want it gone!! Still waffling on if I should go to Dr. Now will wait til Next Monday to see if I get continued improvement. I know muscle pulls take quite a while. And, looking back at my 'Jillian' record, I did level 3 on 5/6, 5/7, went to Dr on 5/11 & it was a bit 'weird' then, 5/11 and then on 5/24 I did it after not doing anything for 2 weeks & 2 days later was miserable. In between I carried 25/35 lbs kids on my right hip & walked for about 3 hours in airports with a HEAVY laptop bag on one shoulder & heavy big purse on other. Seems logical to me that it is muscle....time will tell.

DD is enjoying her trip, but says that the teen club on Carnival is better than on RCCL. Yesterday they shopped in San Francisco. Tomorrow they are in Vancouver. She is a bit disappointed that the family she is with don't like eating in the dining room except on 1 night, but she won't suggest to her friend that just the 2 of them go. Oh well.....

I am ridiculously depressed today about the scale. It is up....again! And I have been good!! Yesterday I logged 214 minutes of moderate activity, burned over 3100 cal, and almost 22000 steps....and up 2 lbs today. GRRRRRRR!!!!!! But, I can tell that TOM is again going to rear it's ugly head...at some point. Wonderful.....NOT!!!!

That and the realization that I am now up 6 lbs coupled with the fact that DD & I get on the train in 41 days brings me to the reality that if I make my goal, it will be nothing short of mirculous. I now have 12 lbs to lose in 41 days. Sigh.......

And then there is DH who has suddenly deccided to diet & exercise. In 10 days he has lost almost 15 lbs. And, he had some comments to make about how slowly I am losing. Great!

Off to potty dogs. Maybe more later.....

[toystoryduo]

No worries on the scale, my friend. :hug: If TOM is coming, that is most likely the culprit. Keep on exercising and eating healthy and the scale will cooperate!:goodvibes

Glad your DD is having a good time! :goodvibes

Hope you have a great evening!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Today didn't get any better.

When I first plugged the Bugg in to upload my info it told me I needed up load the new firmware. click. Then I noticed my wrist display had gone from over 1500 cal burned to 800 cal burned.....????? And my steps had gone from over 11000 to 97. And NO activity today when it had been at almost 2 hours!!

So, unplugged & did again. Again asked me to to the new firmware. OK. This time it took my Cal & steps to 0. Did it 3 more times, then called for the 1st time today. Took over an hour & they 'fixed' the firmware problem & said the display would right itself at midnight (it auto resets). OK. A bit later I had to reboot my computer & decided to see if it would help. Nope. Had to again load firmware....tried 3x....all the same. Call #2. This is a common problem & we should have it fixed by the end of the day. Just click to do it later. OK. another 25 min on hold & call.

So, w/ no display, I wanted to update to see how much I had left to burn today & tried & the bugg did not respond AT ALL. Tried 3 computers. NONE could find my bugg. Call #3 which lasted 1 hour 38 min resulted in the determination that the new firmware fried my bugg. So, I now have to wait 24 - 48 hrs for a return invoice from UPS, send it back & wait to get a new one. will take 7 - 10 days. UGH!!! So, I'm struggling anyway & now have no bugg.....GRRRRRR!!!!! They did offer to extend my plan for 2 months for the inconvenience. That was nice at least & it wasn't the poor tech guys' faults.

I had decided that what seemed to work best for me was to track both points & calories, so I guess I will do that as I can still record food online. Just not calories burned/steps/activity. I will make do, but it is frustrating. I just figure I will try to do what I did today for exercise EVERY day cuz at least I know it takes me about 1 hr 20 min to get in between 10000 & 11000 steps & that yesterday & today that burned about 650 calories. If I do that & am relatively active here at home, I should reach my 2600 cal burned. Oh well......

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, the scale is stupid, just ignore it! That Bugg sounds complicated. I've got a temper and if I had those problems, I'd probably slam it and break it! Maybe I shouldn't get one;)!

Hope dd is having fun, I never understand people who cruise but won't do the main dining room??? That's part of the fun! Oh well, maybe dd and her friend will end up going just them.

Sorry about your aches, hope you are feeling better!

[momof2minnies]

Julie,
Sorry about the Bugg.

Doesn't it just fry you when the husbands say well time to lose weight and it falls off? My DH just started too approx. 4 days ago and I said to him have you lost 15 lbs yet? He said give me a week! What? I could cry, I have been stuck at the same weight for a year no matter what I do. Running a marathon and all!

No Far! God made us do all the hard work the least he could have done was let us lose weight easier than the men!HA!HA!

Linda

[traceycooper]

oh dear the bugg has a bugg!!
hope it gets sorted!
hope DD is having a great trip :)
& i hope you have a great weekend (& the pain goes) :)

[goldcupmom]

Well, the email containing my UPS label for the Bugg never came. :sad2: emailed apex again & they said there was a tech problem & now the email will come Mon or Tues. UGH!!!!!!

Went to WW today. Actually down .4. I'll take it! .3 away from being in the 150s at WW.

Ache seems to be nearly better, but hesitate to say it. Yesterday in the mall it was REALLY strange...almost like something tickling one spot inside. I figure a muscle twitching/relaxing. This morning barely an ache when I got up & has been fine all day except while pushing a cart in WalMart & the occasional twinge. Praying it is resolving!!

DD gets back to LA Sunday morning & then they don't fly out til about 8 p.m. Lands here at 10:45, which means she won't be home til near midnight, then will want to talk all night & see the BF 1st thing monday morning! Means she will be a GROUCH!! oh well..... Apparently all she did was shop this cruise. She called from Vancouver about 4 hours after they got there & said she was headed back to the ship to nap. So they didn't do much there.

Tomorrow starts the neighborhood garage sales & there are 54 registered in the neighborhood just up the hills from me. I will try to go....wanna come?

Off to the laundry & try to get an idea of dinner.

[lovinaz]

Sorry to hear about the bugg problems! That really stinks, especially when you rely on it so much now. At least you are getting a couple free months out of the deal. :thumbsup2

Great news on the loss, congrats! :cool1:

You might call the nurse at the Dr to see if you should go in and get your problem looked at. Every once in a while they are helpful! ;)

[toystoryduo]

Sorry to hear about the BUGG, Julie. :( I hope everything gets worked out with it soon. :wizard:

How did the garage sales go today? We went to a community sale that had over 100 sales this morning. It was chaos!:eek: We walked one block and left. My DD got a pair of shorts and that's it. I was hoping to find more stuff, but it just wasn't meant to be. Hope you found some great deals!:thumbsup2

Have a great weekend!:hug:

[traceycooper]

congrats on the loss JUlie :)
i'm sure you'll make the 150's before your trip :)

[Amy&Dan]

Wow, the 150's, I am envious! You have worked so hard and its clearly paying off.

Ahh, to be young, cruising, shopping and napping! Good for your dd.

Glad the ache is better but for sure go to the doctor if it comes back again. You need to be pain free for your trip!!

I wish I could come to garage sales with you!

[toystoryduo]

How's it going WISH sis? :hug: I hope you have a wonderful day!:wizard:

[keenercam]

Hey, Julie! I hope all is going well and that there has been some progress toward resolving your BUGG issues. UGH!!! I hope things were better than you expected when DD got home.

[goldcupmom]

Gee, I haven't been on here in some time, huh? Lots going on, so this will be a LONG post......

DD got back early from her cruise. The Dad decided cruise was over & he wanted to get home, so got them on different flights home. She had a good time, but still likes Carnival better. Teen club on RCCL is ages 12 -17 & downright boring for the older ones. Food OK, but in Chops was great. Canada was 'incredibly clean'. Her friend went to bed every night between 9 - 10, the parents spent all their time in bars or casino. In ports, parents immediately took a taxi to bars or casinos & left girls on their own entirely. Fortunately, DD has traveled a bunch & is pretty smart about it. Friend initially told the taxi driver they got in with to 'just take us somewhere fun!'. DD fortunately, had asked around the ship & gotten directions to a mall & parliament! Glad they didn't go to Mexico!!

Stomach/back better, but still kinda weird at times....but then again, I spent Sun, Mon, Tues & Wed shampooing carpet....which probably didn't help the tummy muscles. And, TOM decided to show up today...right on the old schedule 2 months in a row.....lovely!! NOT!!!!! So, I probably won't be doing my morning walk tomorrow or Sunday.

Since the Bugg died, I've been doing the walk i had done just prior. Mostly hills & then 77 steps to about 8500'. I do the step portion twice. It is about 5 miles in 1 h 20m.

Unfortunately, my eating has been totally out of control. PMS, tired, anxiety over muscle woes, stress, etc....NEED TO STOP!!!

And now the Bugg Saga.....it gets good!!

So, it died 6/2, 3 hours phone time. 6/4, called back, another 45 min, 6/5, called again, more excuses, another 30 min. Monday morning, I open my email hoping for the coveted UPS shipping label & instead found a SPAM email, in Spanish, from the TECH person sent from his work account. About some TV show w/ links which I didn't open.

So, Mon afternoon, I called again, after another 30 min they finally connected me to supervisor. Went thru saga again, then asked why I can receive SPAM from her employee, but not the email I need? She apologized, PROMISED several times that if I would give her 'just 10 minutes', she would call me back & they would issue me a UPS number immediately. Well, it's Friday & I've never heard from her. Meantime, I am on hold with her, but the 'mute' isn't pressed & I hear the Tech guys in the background, in Spanish, talking about me & they called me a 'F'n Fat B*tch' - in spanish, of course. I said nothing at this point.

Tuesday, I called again, got a different supervisor who I was told was "talking to the UPS department" about my label. when he came to the phone he told me after we talked he would email the shipping department. Differnt story again & he, too, assured me he would call right back. Never did.

Wednesday morning, I LOST it! I got online & emailed the Senior VP of Apex Fitness, the VP, their exec assist & the head of tech support. No response. Then I found on facebook, the CEO of BodyBugg. Emailed him thru Facebook. After doing that, I again called tech support. Asked for supervisor, Still a different one. Went thru everything & then mentioned the 'disrespectful' conversation I overheard in Spanish....while he was talking to me, I could again hear in the background, a discussion about me and another customer in Spanish, & NOT pleasant. He started to tell me that just because they were speaking Spanish didn't mean they were talking about me and that is when I came UNGLUED. I began shouting at him, in Spanish, repeating everything I had just heard them say about me. Went on for about 3 min w/ dead silence on the other end of the phone. When I finished all he could say was 'oh'. I then told him that 'just because I'm a white woman doesn't mean I don't speak the language as well as you do' and that they should 'be careful' lest someone get angry enough to call INS.

Thursday morning, I got an email from the CEO saying he would call me later in the day. Which he actually did! He is personally sending me out a BBugg. Meantime, I called back to Tech support Early Thursday & tech support said they would ship me one out today as well...but who could believe them.

anyway, today, I got a Bugg in the mail that was shipped on Wednesday that no one told me about. also an email from the CEO saying his had been sent, and I'm afraid that another may be coming from the Thursday tech phone call. So, I may end up with THREE. I'd love to keep them all & give them to someone (but I won't) due to all the Hassle I have gone thru. STUPID lack of Customer Service & Tech support!! Time will tell.......

Off to get some stuff done...hopefully more later......I leave for FL 1 month from tomorrow & my weight SUCKS!!!

[momof2minnies]

Hi Julie,
That is just awful how you were treated, awe finally someone snagged for thinking they can spew things out in a different language- always wanted to be the one to say Oh really that's what you think of me? In their language-HA!HA!

Keep the Buggs- are you kidding me! They owe you that for the run around.Give them to a friend.Keep them yourself.If it happened once it may happen again and it will save you the hassle.


WDW in 1 month I am jealous.You will get back on track don't worry.

Linda

[keenercam]

Julie -- I am glad you didn't stand for that garbage and that you now at least have a BUGG. I hope you can get it to work perfectly for you. With all of the hard work you are putting in, I am sure you are going to be in fabulous shape for your trip. :hug:

[traceycooper]

wow i cant believe that!!! i thought it was only us Britts who got lousy customer service!!!
I hope it gets taken further & you at least get a writtten apology!!
At least you have your trip to look forward too :)

[goldcupmom]

Thanks, Cam & Tracey! I am waiting on the other Bugg/Buggs to arrive before I activate one. I know that the one from the BBugg chief is new. I'm not so sure that the one I have so far isn't refurb.

I am off to Dr this afternoon. Side is better, but still playing with my mind and I'm well on the way to a sinus infection & I want to get that taken care of before I leave. 40 days til the cruise, 27 til DD & I get on the train. Praying the Dr goes well & she concurs that this is a muscle problem.

I'll update again later. I have actually started my lists & have 4 wheeled carryons & 7 large suitcases all spread out in my Living Room to begin adding things to when I gather them......

Neighborhood garage sale is Saturday, so I will set up Thurs & open Fri/Sat. Hopefully will make a good amount for the trip.

Hope everyone is having a good week thus far!!

[toystoryduo]

Wow Julie! :eek: I can't believe how much you have been through with the BUGG company. Good for you for going right to the CEO!:thumbsup2 Their customer service sounds like it is seriously lacking. :mad:

Sending some :wizard::wizard: for your garage sale this weekend.

I hope your doctor's appointment went well. Please update us when you can.:hug:

Hope you have a wonderful Wednesday!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Busy here....never ends!

Went to Dr on Tues. Of course BP was off the charts - 168/100, but I took it before I left home & it was 116/71, & DH takes the machine when he goes to cardiologist, so I know it is reasonably accurate.

Dr also thinks my problem is muscles. However, she pushed WAY HARD near the middle of my stomach & it hurt ridiculously, & still kind of hurts today. Said if it isn't noticably better in 4 wks come back....well, 7 weeks in my case, cuz I will be gone. Thinks I had strained muscles in back & abs(thanks, Jillian!) and then tore the bottom layer....probably from trying to turn the stupid cart in Sams. Lifting/turning definitely aggravates it. And last night I stood for 2+ hours next to my bed rolling change (couldn't carry the darned monkey to a table) for the trip since I had it open to get out GSale change anyway.....middle of night & this morning my right side back muscle is VERY tight & painful....oh well.....

There was a scorpion in DDs room last night & it got away so she is sleeping in the office, but when she is up I will email BBugg Chief to see where he would like me to send the extra(1 showed up). I will activate the new one sometime today or in the morning.

Likely won't get to run to WW tomorrow due to GSale, but I am gonna try. DD will be here & it shouldn't take me more than about 10 min total. I might go today, but doubtful. Lots to get done setting up for sale. I didn't advertise for tomorrow, just gonna put up signs & hope for the best. Saturday may or may not be good....depends on how many there are. I'd really like to get $200 total from sale for the trip.

Went to Eye Dr yesterday. DD's rx hasn't changed. Amazingly, it would have cost me MORE for her exam/contacts if we USED our insurance than if we did not :confused: Go figure. My eyes have gotten slightly worse, mainly the near vision...surprise, surprise. I really don't like this Dr, but our Ins is only good at private practices. Really stupid! Yesterday 2 exams & 1 box(both eyes same, so 1 box at a time) contacts for DD was almost $250....WITH INSURANCE!!!!! And if I end up getting glasses there, it will be almost $400 for 1 pair!! GRRRRRR!!!!!! But, my friend on Medicaid/state aid, gets to go every year (we get every 2) & gets FREE any glasses or contacts or BOTH. It seems it just doesn't pay enough to actually WORK anymore!!

On a much happier note, DD & I leave in 25 days & cruise is in 38 days. I NEED IT!!!! But once the sale is over it will truly be all downhill....

Off to update exercise challenge & get busy. I am going to TRY to visit some journals later. Hope all is well with everyone!!

[toystoryduo]

Hi Julie,

I'm glad to hear that your doctor thinks it's a muscle thing and not something more serious. Have you tried any heat patches or something like Biofreeze? That may help alleviate some of the pain for you.:goodvibes

Sending lots of garage sale :wizard::wizard: your way! I hope you make well over $200!!!!:dance3:

Sending you a PM..........

Have a wonderful day, Julie!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Busy day....when isn't it??!!

Today is oldest DS23 birthday. WOW!!

GSale was good - $270.35. I"m still in the cleaning up process.

DD & I leave in 19 days! I AM VERY ANXIOUS!!!

Got back from my walk this morning & DS23 told me the refrigerator was warm inside. Yep. Waiting on the call from the repair guy. UGH!!! NOT what I wanted to do today.

Muscles on side are MUCH better, but I think I've made a discovery. I didn't walk Fri - Sun due to GS & there was NO ache at all. I never really thought about walking working abs, but I do 4 -5 miles, 1 hr 20 min/day & truthfully there is not more than a couple of 10yd AT MOST spots that are level. Everywhere is UP or down, I do 158 stairs each day where it is too steep for the sidewalks & my 'route' goes from 6000' to 6500' to 5500' to 8000' & all over. Hmmmmmmm.......I REALLY think that is the source of much of the residual ache. Walked Mon, Tues & today & some aching. Never thought much about it. Guess it's better exercise than I thought.

And, I made a frightful discovery on Monday while standing in the dressing room waiting on DD. My calves are as big as my lower thighs!!!!!:eek: I knew I was literally walking my a$$ off, but my calves are HUGE!!

Haven't been sleeping well due to hot weather & busy, so I'm hoping for a nap today.....doubtful, but there is hope.

Off to get some stuff done & hopefully visit a few journals..... I'll eventually get caught up again!!

[toystoryduo]

Great job on the garage sale, Julie!:thumbsup2

I hope you were able to get a nap in yesterday. :goodvibes

Have a great day!:hug:

[momof2minnies]

Hi Julie,
Hope you have a great weekend.

Linda

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, sorry about your muscle woes. I hope you feel better! I can't believe you leave so soon! That is awesome you made that much at your garage sale.

Dd's cruise partners sound like not the best people to travel with! But glad it was still a good experience.

Your ds23 has the same birthday as my mom's was. :)

Keep up the good work, I am glad you had taken your bp at home first so you know its not actually as high as in the doctor's office!

[goldcupmom]

Wow! I think I'm the world's worst WISHer!

Finally a couple of minutes to myself.......

10 days til DD & I leave. I am probably 75% packed, so at least that is on track.

Weight is up still. I'm very frustrated, but have adjusted to the fact that I'm not going to make my goal....once again. Oh well.....Life goes on! I'm still plugging away. Much of this is hormone caused I am certain.

I've still been walking Sashi 6 days/week for about 5 miles each time and at least 75% of the walk is hills, so I have to be doing something good.

Raining today, which is why I have time to Dis.

Refrigerator is still not working and I have been fighting our homeowner's insurance company (AHS) for over a week. Each time I call they have a totally different story as to why they can't repair when it is under their contract. So, I have Maytag coming out Monday to fix the recalled part (totally unrelated to the part that is broken). Then DH(I am DONE) will have to call AHS to get them to come out & fix the fridge.

Meantime, I can't do any grocery shopping for they guys for when DD & I are gone as the only working fridge in the house is SMALL. Which means I will likely be doing their shopping next Sunday IF it is fixed.

DS19 is still planning to have a party here for himself on 7/11 - his bday & DD & I leave on 7/13. Needless to say my house is NOT ready for company inside or out!

Ab muscles are mostly better, but still get easily 'tweaked' if I do too much or move wrong. Yesterday morning I was lying on my back in bed with feet on a pillow & went to cross my right leg over left & just that movement I could feel the exact deep muscle that hurts in a line. REALLY strange, but it's apparently the long ones deep down up the front. UGH!!

DS19 went to Dr Mon for sinus infection which I thought was allergy related, but since I know feel like I'm coming down with it, maybe not. Just what I need. NOT!

Next week will be ridiculously busy - Mon is Refrigerator, Wed we have to be at HS at 7:45 to try to convince DDs counselor to hold her classes as we will be gone during registration. She only needs 3/day next year & we don't want to end up with them scattered. Just block 1 - 3 then she can work full time to save for college. Then we both have hair cut/color appointments. She wants some lighter highlights & mine hasn't been done since last summer
:scared1:

At some point I have to grocery shop for DS19's party, order a cake, clean house, finish packing, prepare copious lists for the guys & for DD's BF who will stay here when the guys are gone to care for the dogs.(plus he needs the $$ and his mom wants to throw him out at 17 b/c her new hubby says they shouldn't have to support him - & they are both ICU nurses!) It just never ends.

But, I have my lists (everywhere in the house) & am slowly getting to the day when i can get on the train, duct tape DD's mouth shut :laughing:, & relax!!

We've got only 3+ hours in Chicago, so will likely just walk about near the station. IF there is time she wants to go to the former Sear's tower & go out on the new glass floored platform....NOT ME!! DC, she really wanted to go see Harry Potter movie in the theater at the station but I've convinced her that since we will be sitting for 3+ days & she can see Harry in FL that we need to do something else.....likely the zoo as she has never been.

Off to TRY to visit some journals...Yes, I still love you all & have been quickly reading, but not taking time to write! Thanks for all your :grouphug:

[lovinaz]

Wow, that is quite a haul from your garage sale, congrats!

Sounds like things are pretty hectic, I bet you can't wait to go on your vacation.

Hang in there, it's almost time! :goodvibes

[toystoryduo]

:hug: Julie,

I wish I lived near you so I could help you out with your to do lists. I'll send you some :wizard::wizard::wizard::wizard::wizard::wizard: since I can't be there.

Keep on keeping on, put one foot in front of the other, and before you know it, it will be vacation time!:banana:

Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

So, the refrigerator is finally fixed.....Monday, & now I am waiting on someone to come about the Dishwasher....but that won't be until after I leave on Monday. This is not a good appliance month for us.

DS19 birthday is tomorrow & he is having a party here for himself....but doesn't know how many. Somewhere between 7 & 40 people. Easy to plan for, huh?

I am still not packed. House is a wreck, but oh well.....I'm leaving on Monday no matter what.

I keep trying to find time to Dis, but not having any luck on that, either. Seems like I am going non-stop.

Side is mostly better, but some days, like today, after pushing a grocery cart that constantly wanted to turn right, it starts to hurt again. And, DS19 had a weird rash/thing we thought was allergies about 6 weeks ago. All over his torso. Figured it out...I have a few spots of ringworm like circles on my right upper arm. GRRRRRR!!!!! Finally getting not so visible.

Hopefully I will get a chance to Dis before I leave on Monday, but no guarantees. Hoping & praying all is well with everyone.

I leave 7/13, Chicago 7/14, DC 7/15, FL 7/16 - 26 - DSis 7/16-18, FTW 7/19-20, DSis 7/20-23, Orlando 7/23-25, FtLauderdale 7/25/26, Cruise 7/26-8/1 & then right back home. Going to be busy but fun!!

In case I don't get back on here, I'll be back after 8/1, or hopefully from somewhere on the way....I'll have my laptop.

I won't make goal...or near it by when I leave, but I'm ok with that. When I get back must get serious again.

[momof2minnies]

Julie,
WOW I am exhuasted reading all that! Have a safe and fun, relaxing trip.

Don't worry about your goal now, come back and jump right in.You'll get there.

Linda

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, have a super trip, hope ds19's party was fun!

I can't believe your trip is here, it seemed so far away when you first planned it. You and dd will have a ball.

You did very well and that goal will be achieved when you get back!

Have a fun and safe trip!:cool1::hug::flower3:

[pearlieq]

I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful trip!

I'm sorry to hear about everyone's medical woes. It seems like there's some kind of summer bug going around this year--your DS is about the 10th case of sinusitis I've heard of, myself included!

One of these days it's going to work out to visit you as you pass through Chicago! I know I'm going to be doing time at this hospital on Tuesday, but I'll be thinking about you that day. I really hope you enjoy your stop--your DD is braver than I!

Take care--can't wait to hear all about it in August!

[goldcupmom]

Almost ready!

DD & I had a quick spa visit today....I discovered a discount gift cert I bought expires while I am gone. Had 30 min facials & massages. Hoped to relax in their sauna/jacuzzi/steam room, but they were running behind & we barely had time to shower off & make it home w/ time for her to grab her work clothes & change in the car.

So, I had to go to DQ to buy her some food & am sitting here feeding the dogs their 'pup cups' eating a kids hot fudge/peanut butter sundae. Just what I DO NOT need. Oh well......It is 101 out & I caved. After eating chinese yesterday, I hate to think what the scale will say when I 'weigh out' tomorrow morning. Oh well...as long as my clothes fit for the cruise, I'm ok at this point.

I'll be thinking about you when I pass thru Chi on Tuesday, Pearlie! Someday we will get together. I'll try to get DD to take pics on Sears Tower. NOT ME!!!

HOpefully there will be wireless in Union Station in CHI & DC so I can get on for a bit.

Have a GREAT rest of JULY if I don't talk to you before Aug!!!!!

[traceycooper]

wow you NEED that break Julie!!!!
have a great trip :)

[toystoryduo]

Have a wonderful time, Julie!:cool1: Safe travels to you and yours!:grouphug:

[DisDee]

Have a great time and enjoy your cruise!

[goldcupmom]

At about 10:30 p.m. our train hit a tow truck in Goshen, Indiana. Split the tow truck in half and imbedded the tow truck on the front of our engine. 2 passengers in the truck were killed. Our female engineer was injured severely and taken by EMS to hospital. We now have power restored - a/c, lights, toilets still don't flush, but are still stuck here. An engineer is enroute, but the truck will have to be cut off the front. Likely won't be in DC anytime near when we were supposed to. Will keep you posted. :eek:

I can't believe I have internet access here in the middle of nowhere!! And it is FAST!!!!

[toystoryduo]

Oh my goodness, Julie!:eek: Thank God you are okay!:hug: Sending prayers for the families of those that have been killed and those that are injured. :grouphug: What a tragedy for everyone involved!:sad1:

[Lesli54]

Oh Julie, what a terrible thing to happen. :hug: I just looked up the info and it appears that the tow truck went around the crossing gates. I hope that you and your DD (as well as the rest of the passengers) are alright and not too shaken up.

Other than that, it sounds like your life is as hectic as usual. However, it is great that you are getting away for awhile. We all need a chance to recoup.

I forgot that your DS had a birthday about the same time as my DD21. This is the first year that I am not "invited" to her party in 22 yrs. She and her fiance are having a bunch of friends over. A little different for me, but ok.

I truly hope the rest of your trip goes much better. Take care.

[goldcupmom]

Update now that we are off Amtrak......

Our car attendant viewed the engine video of the crash & said it was 'only by the grace of God' that we were not on our side or burning. Said it was the worst seen in his 30 yrs w/ Amtrak. He was clearly shaken the rest of the trip, but remained VERY attentive & professional.

Worst is that it was a purposeful meeting of train & LARGE diesel tow truck pulling flatbed w/ cycle on it. Apparently woman in truck had no connection w/ driver other than her cycle being towed. VERY SAD!!!

We were at site for 7.5 hours, then the backed us for about 3 hours back to Elkhart, pulled off 1 engine. In Toledo they gave us 2 freight engines. We were over 13 hours late to DC.

Crew on train was wonderful! Passengers were not! Complaining about everything!! Since this train usually only has breakfast on day they arrive DC, in Toledo they loaded Subway boxed lunches for all 250+ passengers. Then in Pittsburgh they loaded a hodgepodge of food - I suspect from other trains from what the cook was telling us - for dinner on small thin styrofoam plates w/ prepacked plasticware.

Engineer was male - a female passenger was treated for diesel inhalation at site. Engineer broke bone in shoulder saving our hides.

We were met in DC at 2:30 a.m. Those traveling on on Amtrak were talked to 1 at a time, then individually(by group) given $15 cab fare to HI Express. DD & I were one of the last & when we arrived HI, a line of about 10 in front of us & 4 behind were told 'no more rooms' - this was 4 a.m. Hotel called Amtrak who came out in vans to take us to a comfort inn. Arrived there just after 5:30 a.m. Amtrak expected us to eat breakfast at the hotel - which closed at 9, then skip lunch before our 3 p.m. train. Neither happened, so that was an expense each passenger incurred. They would not budge.

That and the lack of organization at the Cust. Svc office when we had to go over to get our luggage transfered to the new train were the worst. They simply could not figure it out! Took us over 2 hours & I had to don a hard hat & go w/ a baggage guy down below to identify my bags & help him tag them for new train. And, they still DID NOT MAKE IT!!!!!! Ended up in Tampa instead of here in Lakeland. We did receive them, but they argued that we needed to drive to Tampa to pick them up....NOT!!

Also, the sleeper attendant on our train to FL did not want to let DD & I on the train, w/ our tickets in hand as he said he could not allow us to board since our names were not on his printed list from the conductor & the person's name in that room just was a 'no show' & room had to remain empty. He finally relented, but EVERY single time he walked by our roomette, he commented that we 'were not supposed to be there'. When I asked for him to bring us breakfast as DD was still sleeping (we had less than 6 hours sleep in about 52 hours) he argued that it was not allowed & I would have to wake her to go down to diner if we wanted to eat. After LOUDLY challenging him, he finally relented. But it is standard practice & he had delivered several other breakfasts past our room.....

Other than that, Amtrak handled it well. My concerns I will address in a letter to them along with my praises.

Other than being totally exhausted (DD is sleeping now) we are fine. I'll try to get on again before the cruise. All I have done for 2 days is EAT!!! Tues night the diesel fumes were so bad DD was lightheaded & I had a headache until sometime last night. We spent the night while parked in Indiana walking up & down the train trying to get better air. Definitely need to lose a couple pounds in the next week or I won't have any clothes to wear on the cruise!

More later as I get the chance. Hope all is well with everyone!!

[toystoryduo]

:hug: Julie,

I am so thankful that you and your DD are okay. :grouphug:

You have been through a lot the past few days.:hug: It sounds like you got some good service from Amtrak and some not so good service from Amtrak. I think that considering the circumstances, the sleeper attendant on the train to Florida could have been more professional and much more courteous. I would definitely send an e-mail or a letter describing the situation.

Please be sure and take it easy for a few days if you can. Sending lots of prayers your way....:grouphug:

[lovinaz]

Wow, what a stressful way to start a vacation! Hopefully you are now able to calm down and get the relaxation you need! :goodvibes

[Lesli54]

Glad you finally made it to FL. The story of your trip alone wore me out for the day.

Thankfully the accident wasn't much worse. Too bad you had to listen to the other passengers complain. That just makes the situation harder to deal with.

Hopefully, your cruise will be relaxing. You deserve it.

[goldcupmom]

Just packing up this hotel, headed to Disney Quest, then off to Ft. Lauderdale....Cruise tomorrow! All is well....except, I'm sure, my weight, but oh well..........

Hope everyone is ok!!

So far no more train wrecks!!!:eek::lmao:

[toystoryduo]

Have fun on your cruise, Julie!:sail:

[Lesli54]

Enjoy your cruise. Can't wait to hear the details.

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I am so glad you and dd are okay, but what a tragedy for the people in the truck (why oh why do people do that?) and a nightmare for you. I am hoping the rest of your vacation was uneventful except for all the fun you had!

Did you like Disney Quest? I love the POTC thing, it gets my frustrations out while I shoot those pirates!

Don't worry about the food, that's what a vacation is for!

Save travels friend.:grouphug:

[traceycooper]

wow julie,
i'm so glad you & DD are ok, so sad about the others though:sad1:
Have a super time on your cruise - hopefully smooth sailing all the way :hug:

[toystoryduo]

Hope you're having a great time, Julie! :hug:

[goldcupmom]

I am back now, still exhausted, but slowly recovering from what was NOT a dream vacation. My 'report' will appear here in several installments.

After the train wreck we arrived in Lakeland on Fri 7/17 - 1 day late. DD slept nearly all day, Saturday DSis & I went to Gsales, then she had to work & DD & I went to see Harry Potter. Discovered that my DSis thinks HP is 'really hot' - rather disturbing, but I'm trying to find a blow up doll for her for Christmas!

Sunday we left early for Orlando & Ft. Wilderness. DSis 2 DDs (DNiece1 & 2) & their kids/hubbies both have MotorHomes & camp there every month. DSis DS & his 2 DDs came down from GA for the week. Met with all of them, then took the bus to DTD, walked a bit, then ate at Rainforest. SLOW, SLOW service, food not very good & much pricier than last time we were there. DD & I hung around DTD after everyone else left & walked some more (in the rain).

Back to FtW where DD & I spent several hours driving the 'Beep Beep' (golf cart - each of the DNieces have them) exploring. We got very little sleep as it stormed and woke DNiece1's baby in our camper. Apparently no one slept in DNiece2's camper either as Monday was 'grouch & grumble' day. And it was raining so we swam in the rain.....ick! DD & I ended up taking the monorail and just riding around.

VERY SAD that DD does not remember WDW at all! Went by MK & she started crying because she couldn't remember ever being there. Then at Epcot she got angry that she didn't even remember spaceship earth. Guess I need to plan a girls trip even more than I thought! The only thing she remembers is an armadillo at AK licking her toes!

Back to Lakeland late Monday. Tuesday just hung around DSis house. Wednesday went to Lowry Zoo in Tampa as the little ones had 'zoo school'. Nice zoo, but not worth the $20/pp admission.

Thursday we were to have mani/pedi, then go to pick up DH & DS at Tampa airport.......more later......



M

[goldcupmom]

So, DSis, DD, DNiece1 & I get to the nail salon for our appointments & are told that the person who took our appointment quit and another also quit & they can't do us. So, we get in at the place we went last year. We think all is well. within hours DD's French mani is BRIGHT ORANGE, DSis & DNiece all fall off within 24 hours. Oh well.......

we ended up meeting DH & DS20 at a Wendy's on I4 as DSis wasn't taking her 'happy pills', her DH got called out of town & no one could give us a ride to Tampa. So, I was not on the rental car as a driver....

DH had been sick the week before I left & finally got antibiotics the day before he left. They had to get up at 4:15 a.m. to make their flight. We barely make it to the hotel in Orlando without him falling asleep. He is tired, sick & cranky. So DD & I ended up sitting in the hotel for several hours watching DH & DS20 sleep instead of shopping. FINALLY left to shop & did the outlets on I-4, didn't get dinner til 10 p.m. a Cracker Barrel. Friday we were up and at the IDrive outlets by about 11. Had a coupon for Buffalo Wings & Rings $50 in food for $25 that we picked up to take back to hotel for dinner. REALLY GOOD!!! (But we got lost getting there....)

If you are going to WDW before end of the year check out www.odealsnow.com for some really good 1/2 price offers for several restaurants/attractions. I've ordered from them many times & not been
disappointed.

Saturday up early, checked out, had to go to CityWalk so DD could go to the Endangered Species Store. Ended up buying spectacular candles (www.globalcandlegallery.com) went to Disney Quest to meet up with one of DS20 friends who just moved to Jacksonville area w/ national guard. I at a kids meal cheeseburger at DQ....ick! But was about my best choice...I just don't eat beef much . Left about 5 pm. to drive to Ft Lauderdale. Turnpike has NO FOOD worth eating. Finally had a disgusting kids burger (again) about 8 p.m. Got to hotel about 9:30, had to repack, got to bed after midnight. Woke about 3 a.m. & realized that our $85+ candles would not be allowed on the ship. Fortunately, I was able to leave them with the hotel desk, but no more sleep for me.

We had arranged for a limo service to bring a large van w/ a trailer for luggage (10 people, tons of luggage + 2 strollers & a pack 'n play) The arrived on time, but with NO TRAILER. DBil went NUTS!! DNiece1's DH had planned all along that he would HATE a cruise, so we were not off to a good start. And I was hearing i all 'cuz I made all the arrangements.......

Part 3 coming soon......

[Amy&Dan]

Wow Julie, I am so sorry your trip was not as great as you deserved it to be! I am hoping the cruise went better!

I admire your self restraint, I could not have been that close to the parks and not gone! You and dd need to do a trip to WDW, stay onsite and just do it all!

Can't wait to read more and hope you are settling in at home. Its hard to get back to real life from a long trip.:hug:

[traceycooper]

yes i agree you deff need a girls vacation!
looking forwad to the next instalment & hoping you had a fab cruise!

[toystoryduo]

Sending a :hug: your way, Julie. I'm sorry that the "land" portion of your trip didn't go as expected. I hope the cruise went well for you!:goodvibes

I definitely think you and your DD should do a girls only trip! princess:princess:

Hope you have a great day!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

So, we manage to cram 8 adults, the driver, 2 toddlers, 2 strollers, 1 pack n play, 7 carry on bags and 18 large suitcases into the 10 passenger van and arrive a bit squished, but safely at the pier. Exit the van and immediately get upstairs, sign in and begin the wait to get on the ship.

It is during the 'sit' that DNiece mentions that her 15 month old DD hasn't slept since they left home on Fri after work. And the 2 yr old awoke this morning with one eye almost swollen shut from allergies.......OH NO!

We board the ship about 11:30, walk a bit, go eat lunch, walk some more. Beautiful ship, beautiful day. All seems well. DNiece & her DH are exhausted from having a screaming 15 mo DD in a hotel room for 2 nights so when the rooms are ready they head to their rooms....but they get no luggage until after 10 p.m. and thus start the cruise even crankier as, for some reason, even with 2 king beds, 2 rooms, they can't get the girls to nap. They forego dinner in the dining room....wise decision.

DH & DS20 head to the blackjack tables, DSis, her DH & I wander, watch the show & then play slots. DD has headed to the teen club and I stay up to make sure she makes it into her room by her 1 a.m curfew, while DH sleeps. So I am already exhausted on Day 1 since I had gotten up at 3 a.m. the morning before.

Day 2 - Key West - Unfortunately, when the sun comes up, I'm awake, so only about 5 hours sleep. I go retrieve breakfast for DD & DS20 & much needed coffee (even if it is decaf). Meet with DSis & the DNiece families at buffet and learn that the baby has screamed all night & fell asleep about 5 a.m. Needless to say they were GRUMPY. Seriously considering getting a flight home from Key West. We all got off & walked to Southernmost point in ridiculous heat. Somehow I was the only one who thought to bring cold water.?? Separated on the way back as DNieceDH & DBil wanted to do some bar hopping, DSis & DNiece wanted to shop, but we wanted to go at our own pace. Ended up buying Kai Kai flip flops for me, DS20 & DD. DH wanted Key Lime pie, but couldn't get anyone to wait on him, so he left very grouchy as well. Oh well.......

Back on the ship I go to DNiece and ask her if the 'spot' on my spine looked like a mosquito or eczema. She said eczema & put medicine on it from her DD2. I had had an itchy 'welt' on top of my right shoulder in Orlando & had determined it was a mosquito bite from DSis yard. Again, DNiece & family did not go to dinner with the rest of us, DH & DS20 landed in the casino, DSis & I finally did & once again I waited up for DD while DH slept.

Day 3 - Got to sleep about 1:30 & was up by 6 & had some quiet time waiting for sunrise. Went by DNiece room just after 7 & picked up Ash & took her exploring. Learned that once again Tay had not slept. Not good! I tried to nap with no luck, played on the water slide, casino, etc & this was formal night #1. We managed to get some decent pictures despite exhausted toddlers & increasingly grouchy adults, DD who just wanted to run & DS20 who has gotten even less sleep to this point than I because he can't leave the casino......but he is winning. Again the guys went to the casino, I caught part of shows, walked a lot, played some slots & tried to go to bed....I set my alarm to get up to check DD. Instead ran in to DS20 who said he told her he was going to be up til about 3 anyway, so she could stay out. NOT!!!!

Day 4 - Grand Cayman - Had to get everyone up early to get an early tender together so we could make the shuttle to Boatswain's beach. I brought breakfast to kids again, then went up to eat & once again had time only to grab a banana & a muffin. Somehow, I'm managing to miss my fav meal EVERY time!! But everyone else eats. GRRRRR!!!!!!

[goldcupmom]

So, our tender number is called & we end up standing for over 30 min on stairs as the ocean is rough & tenders are banging against the ship which slows the boarding down. During this time we learn that Tay didn't sleep again & they had people banging on their walls last night because of it. We get to Cayman and while waiting at the pier for our shuttle notice that Tay has a large 'blister' looking spot on the end of her tongue. No wonder she hasn't been eating or sleeping!! So, we all head to Turtle Farm while she naps, of course.

Turtles are awesome & we all head to the lagoon to swim with them. Dsis refuses because they 'haven't cleaned the water'. There is algae floating in the man made saltwater lagoon. Boo Hoo. DS20 wants no part of snorkeling and sits in jeans & a black T on the beach, not complaining, but clearly not happy and VERY tired. The rest of us snorkel for well over an hour, then shower off, visit the touch tanks & head to town to shop. All I'm after is Rum & Perfume. DH takes off to buy cigars & head back to the ship. DS20 comes with DD & I to get perfume, then takes off leaving me with DD to go buy the rum. Well, 3 ships in port. Our last tender is at 3:15 & all the rum shops stopped selling at 12 noon as the first ship leaving's last tender was at 1. Hot, tired, thirsty, hungry and VERY GROUCHY, DD & I hit 4 shops & no one will sell us any & I know that this is the 1 thing I was supposed to get for DS23 & DH will be mad. I'm losing it & DD wants to find the ONE key chain she wants for her BFriend & can't. Finally, I'm done & tired of carrying my snorkel gear & the tote bag full of perfumes when we head back to the pier & run into DS20 who is carrying a 'yard' from Senor Frogs that he says he paid almost $20 for & Can't stand the taste. I Chugged the darned thing. NOT a good move for someone who has nothing in the stomach & really doesn't drink. It did make the next couple hours a bit less painful, tho!

So, back on the ship getting ready for dinner I notice a large lump forming on my left inner arm just above the elbow. We're talking like 1/2 a tennis ball. It gets hard, red & HOT to the touch. I figure I touched something in the lagoon. After dinner I go into the bathroom and see dozens of hives on my left shoulder & chest that quickly grow into one big welt. Great! So I drag out the hydrocortisone & start popping benadryl which knocks me out & makes me miserable. Next day Jamaica & my birthday & at this point I'm not sure I will even be able to get off the ship. Plus, I have to set the alarm for the middle of the night to pump more benadryl. Everyone thought the big bump looked like a bug bite, but it eventually seemed more like a giant hive. Will never know.....

[goldcupmom]

DNiece takes Tay to the Dr. on ship & finds that she has Thrush. Not just her tongue, but her mouth. Gets meds.

Day 5 - Jamaica & my birthday - Get up early to find that the bump on my arm is nearly gone & the ones on my chest are totally gone. But, I now have small hives on forearms & stomach. So, I pop more benadryl & dress for Dunn's River Falls. We finally get everyone off the ship, find out private tour guide & get in a wonderfully nice, new air conditioned bus that could have held double the number. Get to the falls & DSis & DNiece have the 2 girls, the rest of us are going to climb. When they were told there were small 'pools' along the falls that the girls could play in, they envisioned swimming pools, and somehow thought that the beach area that this huge falls goes into wouldn't have any stairs.

So, DH, DS20, DD, DBil & DNieceDH climb the falls while DSis & DNiece sit in the heat with 2 girls complaining non-stop. When we reached the area where they were waiting, they kept yelling at us, complaining & wanting us to stop. NOT!! DH did, but only because it was too tough on his back & knee. DS20 broke from the group, climbed the 2nd half on his own, then came back down & did it again with us. It was beautiful.

But, the benadryl was taking it's toll on me & I felt really shaky & miserable the whole way. After the falls, everyone wanted to shop. We then dropped DSis's & DNieces back at the pier & DH, DD, DS20 & I went with the driver & his daughter outside town to get some real jerk chicken. it was GREAT even though I was miserable & getting more hives.

Back on ship I told DH I didn't really feel like getting cleaned up for 2nd formal night & he said "it's your damned Birthday do whatever the he!! you want" and that was the only mention of my birthday. Oh well.... Later in the evening I went to the coffee bar & got the most decadent white chocolate cake & ate it by myself.

Day 6 - again at sea & I was still having outbreaks of small hives, taking benadryl, applying hydrocortisone,so I didn't do much other than walk around, do the breast cancer walk w/ DSis & play slots...I did end up ahead by about $60 at the end. Was up w/ DD until almost 3 a.m. & had to get up at 7 to get off the ship.

So, we got off the ship, DSis left w/o even saying goodbye thinking we would be able to meet up downstairs. NOT!! Got the driver to take us past the hotel to pick up the candles then got to Ft. Lauderdale airport about 3.5 hours before our flight. This day I had hives on right side about at bra seam & at waist in same area. During the 6 hours of flights home I developed them all over my lower back. Fortunately, I was so drugged, tired that I slept off & on the whole way. Airport was ridiculously crowded & food/drinks basically sold out. Ended up with a nasty sandwich to share w/ DD & then a mcd burger in Orlando.

Got home & our van wasn't there to get us & then when they arrived, they decided to haul another guy in the opposite direction. UGH!!

Dogs were fine, house fine, refrigerator not working again. Got up in the middle of the night to potty dogs & felt that I had a large hive on the sole of each foot. Gone by morning. Smaller hives came & went all day Monday.

Monday night when I got up in the middle of the night I apparently had a large hive inside my right cheek in my mouth. Again gone by morning & a few less smaller hives all day Tuesday.

Tuesday night not much, but still a few hives coming and going even today & it has been over a week. Unfortunately, by the time I call a Dr., get in, there likely won't be any to show them. I'm very frustrated, tired of the benadryl, but when I don't take it, they get worse. Last night I was up from 2 - after 5 & I suspect I had some in my throat. Felt like horrid allergie & hurt a bit to breathe. Somewhat better today, but again, nothing really for a Dr. to look at & they would likely just tell me to take Benadryl

I'm not sure they are allergy or maybe even from stress.

I also am not convinced that DS23 still has a job. DD's Boyfriend who stayed her with dogs said DS23 never left at the times he would have to go to work. And DS23 now says they've changed his schedule to odd hours when the shift he supposedly supervises isn't there for most of it, etc. And there is a Keg on my back sunporch...I keep trying to get DH to come with me late at night to WalMart to check, but he won't.

More later......

[traceycooper]

oh dear julie i really dont know what to say - i hope you managed to make the best of everything & got some positives from your trip :)

[goldcupmom]

Yes,Tracey, there were definitely some great positives from this trip, but for the most part, the negatives were far the majority.......:sad2:

I finally called the Dr. about my hives, but can't get in until tomorrow morning & not with my Dr. but another in the group. Yesteday the swallowing thing got weirder - when I swallowed anything, it hurt absolutely mid sternum between the breasts - my guess is where the esophagus joins the stomach. Even when I had a sip of hot cocoa last night I could feel it. I'm guessing hives/inflamation. Haven't tried anything today yet as I'm going to go to WW in a bit. Also got a larger than usual hive on one arm & on my side. UGH!!! I'm sure the stress/anxiety isn't helping them at all.

Good things from trip: Had some good times w/ DD; spending time alone w/ a very precocious almost 3 yr old who sees the wonder in everything; Swimming with the sea turtles was pretty amazing & I'd probably still say so even if we determine the hives are from that lagoon; Jamaica & Dunn's River Falls were truly spectacular; getting to spend a bit of time w/ DSis DS & his girls; Ft. Wilderness; just being on the ship & the ocean; having my DBro meet me at the train station in Iowa with caffeine free diet Mt. Dew!

The Bad & the Ugly: HIVES!!; train wreck; lack of sleep; sick kids; grouchy people; my un-birthday; my DSis totally losing it at me & her DS over my letting his DD try on a halter sundress that was too big for DD - we actually had to get one of her DDs over to mediate (for hours) & try to calm her down after she blasted all of us, accused us of making the 13 yr old a slut, & locked herself in her room screaming on the phone & crying....that was really special & stressful & DD & I nearly went to a hotel over that one

So life goes on & I feel like I really need a vacation! Unfortunately, that is not to be..... I have only managed to get out & walk once since I've been home due to the heat, tired, stress hives, etc. & I really need to, but can't drag out of bed early enough to beat the heat due to the benadryl & lack of sleep.

Refrigerator guy came out again on Monday & it is still not getting to safe temps so will have to keep calling. I need to do some major grocery shopping, but can't get motivated due to the refrig issues.

I gave up on my BodyBugg after the trainwreck when it got full & I had no way to download it, then at DSis couldn't get her computer to recognize the USB port & I couldn't use mine as she doesn't have wireless. But, the first day home when I weighed, I was up only 2 lbs, so I'm not complaining. With the hives coming & going on my arms I really don't think I should wear the bugg yet, but I want to. Not sure what WW will say as I had gained a bit before I left from the last time I had gone. Guess I will find out! But, I am still at least in the low 160's if not in/near the 150's. Still have a long way to go....

I am going to try to get the energy to visit journals today.


So here's a link to pics from the trip....Warning: there are a LOT of them!!

http://photos2.walmart.com/thumbnailshare/AlbumID=1029292004/a=4720533_4720533/

[goldcupmom]

Hives are still here and are driving me NUTS!!!!!!!

Went to the Dr. (not mine, but one in the group) on Saturday & he said to stop the benadryl & try Zyrtec, if not better in about a 5 - 7 days, then to come back & they will do some blood tests to see if an underlying physical cause.

So, Saturday night I took Zyrtec. Sunday morning I had more hives than ever except for the 1st couple of days. I seem to be near 'normal' from about noon to 4 then they start appearing again. Last night was up most of the night trying not to scratch. Large cluster of large hives on my shoulder blade, then top of shoulder, then lower back & when I did sleep a bit, DH woke me to take the dogs out & I had a fat lower right lip. UGH!!!!!!

DH of course says it is nothing, ignore it, I shouldn't be bothered by it, etc. Surely something has to have triggered this & something can stop it!!

I probably won't go back to the internist, thinking dermatologist next & then maybe allergist. Not sure........Prayers welcome!!

Hope everyone is having a better start to the week than I am! And, refrigerator still not working......GRRRRRRRR!!!!!!! Calgon take me away!!!! No, wait, I might be allergic.......

[toystoryduo]

Sending lots of prayers and :wizard::wizard: your way. I hope you get some answers soon as to what is causing your hives....

Great pictures, Julie! Thanks for sharing!:goodvibes

I hope you're feeling much better soon!:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Thanks, Tracy! Not as many today & all are fading now so not so bad. Only a small one inside my mouth.

Called a dermatologist yesterday & first available appt. (for existing patients even!) is 9/14. Tomorrow I will try an allergist if improvement doesn't continue...but there are only FIVE in the entire STATE, so I doubt that that appt. would be anytime soon, either. (Have I mentioned how I HATE NEW MEXICO???)

Sigh.........

I still haven't walked poor Sashi & she is way too energetic from lack of exercise (wish I was!). Just not getting enough sleep to get up & walk before it is too hot. I am ready for fall!!

Off to do a bunch of returns this morning.

Hey, Tracy or others.....how busy do you think parks would be 1st weekend in Oct? DD has a break. Other than that it is Halloween weekend which is probably packed, or the week of Christmas. I'd like to be able to to a VR so we can get the free dining - even just the quick stuff wld be good.

DNiece did offer us their motorhome & 'beep beep' at Ft. Wilderness if we want, but by the time we pay the fee for the site, I think someplace like Music or Sports might be as cheap. & Cheap is the optimum word!!

Thanks!

[Amy&Dan]

Julie, I am so sorry the cruise didnt' go as well as you deserved it to! I am telling you, extended family trips are tough to pull off.

First week of October shouldn't be too bad. Lots of locals will be at Epcot for Food and Wine. And since they extended free dining into October that will have ppl there too. I'd say moderate but very manageble. Go for it if you can! I love that time of year at WDW. And do the Halloween party, its so fun. You and your dd should do this just you two.

Music and Sports are both nice, newly refurbbed rooms. At Music, I'd ask for a room back in Country Fair or Broadway. You and your dd like to walk, and the walks aren't bad to the main area. And its much quieter. I love Music but the pool games at the main pool make it very kid friendly. You and your dd would be better off back by the Piano pool. Sports generally has lots of young kids but I still really like that resort. Pop is another one I'd recommend, in fact its about my favorite value. Love the lake, and its got the best food court on property in my opinion. I really, really, REALLY hope you go!

And when your dh's birthday rolls around, don't do one damn thing for him. Sorry, but you deserved better on your day!

I hope these hives get better, that must be beyond awful.:hug:

Did I mention you should defnitely go to WDW!!!!???!!!:rotfl:

[toystoryduo]

I hope you're feeling better, Julie. :hug:

I'm with Amy...You should do a girls only trip to WDW!!!princess:princess: October seems like a good time to go. Value resort+ free dining + minimal crowds (except for Food and Wine) = :dance3::banana::cool1::woohoo::yay:

I hope you have a great day!:hug:

[traceycooper]

great pics julie :)
nice to ''see'' you :)
the hives must be aweful, i hope they go away!!
WDW anytime would be fine with me ;)

[toystoryduo]

How are you, Julie? Are the hives gone? I hope you're feeling better.:hug:

[goldcupmom]

Thanks for checking in, y'all!

Hives still here. Went to my PCP yesterday & she basically took notes, quickly glanced at them & said they were classic allergy hives that could take a few MONTHS to go away. Said I should probably see a dermatologist for other input. Offered me prednisone which she said had about 50/50 helping record. Also said to start on Zantac, Pepcid, or ?? (cant' find my note) as they are really an antihistamine of the H2 blocker type & I may need the Zyrtec/claritin/allegra H1 type and the H2 type to shut them off. I haven't started that yet.

So, here's the post I put on Budget Board. I actually booked air today (SW, so I can use my credit for a year if needed)

"I can book Pop Cent., music or sports fo $74/night + tx. 3 nights there, then we will stay at Ft. Wilderness w/ DNiece & her family in their motor home.

Or, I can book the package deal w/ the quick meals, tickets for almost $1300.

W/ just hotel I would buy the no exp 6 day passes for $371/pp thru undercover tourist.

Which do you think is a better deal?

Also, can we use ME when returning to MCO from FtW?

Thanks!! This is a surprise trip for her as when we stayed 1 night at FtW in July w/ DNiece, DD & I rode the monorail & she cried at MK & Epcot as she couldn't remember the castle & had NO CLUE what space mountain or Spaceship earth were.....sad!!! "

So, what do you think?

forgot to add I would call her in on Tues 10/6 & we would be at hotel at WDW from 10/6 - arrive about 4 p.m., til Fri 10/9, then go to FtW & then fly home 10/11. She would miss 1 day of school....oh well.....!

[toystoryduo]

Woohoo!!!:woohoo: A girls' only trip to WDW!!!princess:princess: How exciting for you both!!!:yay:

It sounds like both trips would come out to be about the same amount. I think it just depends on how much you are planning on spending on food if you choose the value + Ft. Wilderness option. Will you be doing QS or TS meals? If you think you will lean towards mostly QS meals, then the value resort + free dining might be the way to go. Plus, you wouldn't have to change resorts, you could get ME from your hotel, and you and your DD could visit family and then come back to your own room.

In any event, you're going to WDW....How exciting!!!!!:banana::yay::woohoo::dance3::cheer2:

[goldcupmom]

Woohoo!!!:woohoo: A girls' only trip to WDW!!!princess:princess: How exciting for you both!!!:yay:

It sounds like both trips would come out to be about the same amount. I think it just depends on how much you are planning on spending on food if you choose the value + Ft. Wilderness option. Will you be doing QS or TS meals? If you think you will lean towards mostly QS meals, then the value resort + free dining might be the way to go. Plus, you wouldn't have to change resorts, you could get ME from your hotel, and you and your DD could visit family and then come back to your own room.

In any event, you're going to WDW....How exciting!!!!!:banana::yay::woohoo::dance3::cheer2:

Hopefullly I will be able to pull this trip off!! Most likely I will book room & just buy discount tickets rather than the package. If I buy the package it willbe just for T - Th nights at likely ASM, then go stay in the motorhome free Fri & Sat....besides, DD LOVES the little ones & driving the 'beep, beep' all around FtW. W/ the package, we would def to the QS as neither of us is likely to want to feel obligated to sit down & eat each day. Snacking is fine.

I'm trying to think how to justify all this to DH as even being thrifty, it ain't cheap!!

Still hivey today....3 weeks. UGH!!!!

[Amy&Dan]

Hi Julie, good job booking airfare!:cool1:

As for what's the better deal, I tend to lean towards the package just becasuse then you have no hidden expenses to worry about. We are doing the QS Plan in March, I am done with the full serve DDP unless I can ever get it for free. Too much hassle and the full serve menus all look the same these days. But that's also a good deal for the room only at Pop and then you'd have tickets for a few other days another trip. I just like to prepay with a package and have it done!]

As for dh, tell him its probably the last trip you can do with dd at WDW while she's still a kid and you are going. Tell him its a late birthday present to yourself!

I am so happy you are going. :goodvibes

And so sorry those hives are still hanging around. I hope the new meds help!

Oh, and if you do the QS, I'll tell you the best places to go for your money where you can really maximze those cs credits!

[toystoryduo]

As for dh, tell him its probably the last trip you can do with dd at WDW while she's still a kid and you are going. Tell him its a late birthday present to yourself!

Great idea, Amy! :thumbsup2

Oh, and if you do the QS, I'll tell you the best places to go for your money where you can really maximze those cs credits!

I hope you'll share those with me too! ;)


Julie,

I really hope that you and your DD can take this vacation. ::yes:: I think you both will have such a wonderful time together. I'm sending lots of :wizard::wizard::wizard::wizard: your way.

How are the hives today? I'm sorry that you're still having to deal with them. I hope you're feeling better soon!:hug:

Have a nice evening!:hug:

[traceycooper]

Great that you can organise this trip Julie - lucky you :)
I cant believe those hives are still around :( you must be soooo frustrated & fed up!!!
hope you have a great rest of the week :)

[Amy&Dan]

Hey Julie, hope things are going well! Have you told your dh about the trip yet?

[goldcupmom]

Well, I haven't cancelled air, but trip is on hold for the moment. DH found that his pay cut has been extended thru the end of the year, possibly permanent for everyone & probability of no raises next year...again.. UGH!!

And, the hives are no better. Very early Sat. morning I woke & had to literally PRY my mouth open & separate my tongue, cheeks, teeth was that dried out. Eyes horrid, too. So, I went & bought Kids Zyrtec at 5 mg instead of 10mg adult & decided to split the dose. Seemed to help the dryness a bit. Added the pepcid the Dr had said. For the last several days I have had sporadic chest tightness, wheezing feeling (but peak flow ok), etc. So I took myself off the zyrtec & pepcid and back on benadryl as of 6 a.m. today. Called my PCP & she wants me to come in at 10:30.

And of course, I have much support, love & empathy here. Saturday I made the comment to DH that I didn't know how long I was going to be able to deal w/ the zyrtec & the dryness & he said "I can't care about your dry, itchy skin because I'm tired & my back hurts". UGH!!!!!!!!!!!

This is truly driving me NUTS! And really disrupting my life!!

To top it off, on the zyrtec it seemed I was getting less of the smaller hive & more that are larger & hang around for a few days. This morning early I woke with one on the side of the bridge of my nose, just enough so that my bifocals don't sit right, which means I can't see quite right out of my right eye. And when I told DH that, he just rolled his eyes at me......

I did luck out yesterday & got a cancelled appt at an allergist on 9/17 & I go to a dermatologist on 9/14. Hopefully someone can figure out something.

And Tuesday DS20 left his headlight on while he was at school all day. Car wouldn't jump, so had to go back down , remove his battery, charge it daytime yesterday (& of course power went out just about the time he finally got it out so he didn't get it fully charged before he needed it, so had to use my car) - the battery in a vet is behind the drivers seat under the shelf - NOT easy to remove. Thankfully, the car started this morning once he charged the battery.

So, all in all, I'm having a crappy week....hopefully y'all aren't! Prayers appreciated!

Tracy, if I don't get to your journal soon, I hope you have a wonderful trip to WDW!

[goldcupmom]

:mad:So, I went to my PCP. she said that Zyrtec nor Pepcid could cause tight chest (but it is in their allergic warnings) and that what is causing my chest pain is "whatever is causing the hives". told me to continue the zyrtec & maybe start singulair. Also gave me an albuterol inhaler.

When I told her I had an appt at an allergist, she LAUGHED & told me that I shouldn't be upset when they don't find anything. I understand they might not, but I think that since it has now been over a month, that maybe we should rule out some underlying disorder, or something!

Am I totally off base? The 1st Dr. I saw said if I still had after a week on zyrtec that they needed to do bloodwork to rule out a parasite, an autoimmune disorder or some underlying blood disorder....who is correct? My gut says do the tests.

And, to top it off, my heart has been doing it's flip flops most of the day & feeling like missed beats....stress, lack of sleep, possibly hormones, etc....what fun!!!

[Amy&Dan]

:hug:Julie, I am so sorry you are going through all of this.:hug:

Listen to your gut, I never think female intuition is a bad bet. And keep us posted and hang in there.

If you haven't already, check this website: www.allearsnet.com You can click on the menus and price out everything you think you and your dd would eat. You may be able to save money by not doing the QS Plan. I hope you get to go but understand your dh's paycut may not make it possible. If you've got your airfare, that's something right there! I really hope it works out. Of course I'd probably shut my power off to finance my Disney trips so I may not be the best authority on this. But I always price out my trips in a variety of ways to see what the best deal is. You may be able to save some money here and there. Like don't get the park hopper, drink the free ice water, stuff like that. It all adds up and makes the trip more affordable.

Hang in there, I am so sorry you have had this kind of week!:hug:

[traceycooper]

oh dear Julie - i deffinatly agree with you that you need to see the allergist!
sending lots of :hug: and :wizard: your way
:wizard::wizard::hug::hug::wizard::wizard::hug::hu g::wizard::wizard::wizard:

[toystoryduo]

Oh Julie, :hug:

Sweetie, I am so sorry that the hives are still causing problems for you. :( I definitely think you should listen to your gut. If your gut says do the tests, then I think you should insist on the doctor doing the tests. ::yes:: I am praying for you, WISH sis!:hug: